Are you an undergraduate or postgraduate student in UK? If so, have you registered for the Bruneian Postgraduate Symposium yet?

The Bruneian Postgraduate Society is holding its second Bruneian Postgraduate Symposium on March 20 with the theme: ‘Sustainability and Growth: Securing our Nation’s future’. The main panels for this year’s symposium are National Identity and Education and Environment, Health and Law.

The one-day symposium will be held at the Brunei Gallery Lecture Theatre at the School of Oriental and African Studies in London, UK and registration to attend the symposium is now open.

The Bruneian Postgraduate Society has organised three exciting and intellectually-stimulating keynote speakers for the symposium, the first being Awang Hj Md Rozan bin Dato Paduka Hj Md Yunos, the Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Development (Administration and Finance) who is a key figure within the Governmental administration and serves as a driving force in the development of the country.

The second keynote speaker is Dr Hj Omar bin Hj Khalid, Vice-Chancellor of the Institute Technology of Brunei (ITB). He leads an increasingly important institution, especially with its recent establishment as a fully-fledged university. ITB is a key factor in ensuring the development of a technically-focussed work force.

The final keynote speaker is Professor Tong Chee Kiong, Special Academic Advisor to Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) who hails from the National University of Singapore and whose research interests include The Chinese in Southeast Asia, Comparative Religious Systems, Civil Religion and Commercial Development and Institutional Foundations of Chinese Business Firms.

They join the ranks of previous, similarly distinguished keynote speakers of the Symposium such as Dr Hj Zulkarnain bin Hj Hanafi, the Vice-Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD); Dr Hj Mohd Yusop bin Hj Awang Damit, the former Rector of Universiti Islam Sultan Sharif Ali (UNISSA) and Dr Hj Supry bin Hj Awg Ladi, the Director of International and Public Relations Office at Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB).

The 2010 Bruneian Postgraduate Symposium will see Bruneian postgraduate researchers from Brunei, the UK and Australia presenting papers based upon their research.

It is hoped that this symposium will be the first of many opportunities for policy-makers, working academics and researchers, as well as postgraduate students to discuss the research that has been done and currently being undertaken, with the view to achieving Brunei’s Vision 2035.

For more information, potential attendees can visit the Bruneian Postgraduate Society website at http://bruneianpostgrads.org where up-to-date information about the Bruneian Postgraduate Symposium can be obtained.

Undergraduates from Academy of Brunei Studies (APB), Universiti Brunei Darussalam today made an educational visit to Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD) at its Kiulap Branch.

The educational visit began with a welcoming note and a presentation on SME financing facilities by Pg Sanusi Iskandar Pg Hj Ismail, Manager for SME Service Centre.

The students are in their third year at the Academy of Brunei Studies doing a programme on “Industri Tradisi Brunei”.

The aims of the educational visit were to expose the students to Islamic Banking, the structure of the bank as well as the products and services offered by BIBD to the public, specifically to SME’s.

The students were briefed on the role of the Small Medium Enterprise Service Centre and the types of schemes offered to the public – Enterprise Facilitation Scheme and the Microcredit Financing Scheme. These schemes according to Pg Sanusi Iskandar are offered in collaboration with His Majesty’s Government through the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources (MIPR).

He continued to present to the students on the criteria an applicant will need to meet in order to be eligible for the financing schemes offered by BIBD’s SME Service Centre. He later then continued to touch on the various financing facilities offered to SMEs.

The students during the presentation also learnt about the process flow of SME financing from its application stage all the way to its approval together with the drawdown of financing.

According to Pg Sanusi Iskandar, the ingredients needed for a good business are cash, commitment, collaboration, integrity, honesty and to be an opportunist.

He told the students that if they wanted to start a business, they will have to consider some points such as raising sufficient working capital to run operations for at least six months without revenue, being open to opportunities, having confidence in new ideas and not afraid to accept failure but learn from them, as well as create strong channel partners and distribution points to get closer to their potential customers.

After the presentation, the students got a chance to mingle with BIBD staff members, where they had the opportunity to receive more in depth information about the bank.

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad as the leading Islamic Banking institution in this country pursues itself in providing innovative Islamic Banking products and services for the benefit of Brunei Darussalam as a whole.

Wake up in the morning feeling like P Diddy
Put my glasses on, Im out the door – I’m gonna hit this city (Lets go)
Before I leave, brush my teeth with a bottle of Jack
Cause when I leave for the night, I ain’t coming back

Don’t stop, make it pop
DJ, blow my speakers up
Tonight, Imma fight
Til we see the sunlight
Tick tock, on the clock
But the party don’t stop
Woah-oh oh oh
Woah-oh oh oh

Aint got a care in world, but got plenty of (ginger ) beer
Aint got no money in my pocket, but I’m already here
Now, the chicks are lining up cause they hear we got swagger
But we kick em to the curb unless they look like Jessica Biel
Im talking about – everybody getting crunk, crunk

DJ, you build me up
You break me down
My heart, it pounds

Yeah, you got me
With my hands up
You got me now
You gotta that sound
Yea, you got me
DJ, you build me up
You break me down
My heart, it pounds
Yeah, you got me
With my hands up
Get your hands up
Put your hands up

From The Brunei Times:

Public nominations for the selection of the Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) Wish Campaign grand prize winner of $1,000,000 opens today and they can be made through SMS and on its website.

The public can nominate by typing ‘BIBDWISH (codenumber of nominees)’ and send to 8885555 for those using DST service provider and 38388 for B-Mobile users. Only one SMS nomination per number will be counted and all proceeds from the SMSes will be donated to charitable organisations to be announced on a later date.

Nominations can also be made through the website www.bibdwish.com, where the names and code numbers of the nominees along with their full "wishes" can be found.

The public nomination accounts for 30 per cent of the overall results with the remaining 70 per cent to be decided by a fresh panel of judges.

Previously, the BIBD management had selected seven judges from various professions including finance, academic, literature and shariah experts to assess the shortlisted stories in order to determine the 12 nominees.

"For the Grand Award, a set of eight new judges have been introduced to ensure continuous impartiality and the panel are experts from the fields of business, academia, shariah and media and information," Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Jaafar, BIBD’s head of sales and distribution channel told The Brunei Times.

Nominees will be judged on their current financial situation, transformational role of savings in their life, the sustainability of their wish and the inclusiveness of the wish — how it will affect their loved ones or others.

Pics from last night’s inaugural meeting of the Leicester Brunei Students’ Society, BRULeics. It was an informal affair which began with a discussion about the new society, followed by a nice pot-luck dinner. Thanks for coming guys and lets keep this ball rolling! Enjoy the pics!

Mimi’s doodle

Abhar introducing his brother Amirul

Writing the minutes

Makan time

French Crepes with Nutella and Whipped Cream… yummm

Adam the top salesman

Malaysian Munch!

Sosis aka Kuyuk Panas

Mengira usin

Who will receive Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam’s (BIBD) Grand Wish Award of up to BND1,000,000 in April 2010? That is a decision that the public can help to make.

BIBD launched the Wish Campaign in March 2009 with the aim of aspiring to cultivate a culture of savings among Bruneians in a sustainable manner by encouraging account holders to increase savings every month. Wishes of BND 8,000 have been granted to a total of 93 awardees recipients’ altogether. On top of that, 3 awardees have been granted BND 100,000.00 during each Quarterly event with the Grand Total value of the Wish Campaign granted up to BND 2,020,000.

As one of the largest banks in Brunei, BIBD holds the social responsibility to invest in Bruneians. BIBD realizes that saving and building a strong foundation for the future is not easy. So through this campaign, BIBD wishes to be the public’s companion to grow their savings in order to achieve their life’s aspirations.

BIBD announced its Wish Campaign of up to BND1,000,000 Grand Award today at the Rizqun International Hotel where 12 Wish nominees have been selected for the last round of nominations and judge screenings to be done from 2nd March to 1st April 2010.

Present to announce the nominees was panel of BIBD Management comprising of Mr Javed Ahmad, BIBD Acting Managing Director, Hj Mohd Rozaiman DSLJ Hj Abd Rahman, Head of Consumer Banking Division, Hjh Nurul Akmar Hj Jaafar, Head of Sales and Distribution Channel, Hjh Saadatun Amanda Pehin Dato Haji Abas, Head of Legal and Compliance and Lawrence Chong, Consultant for Wish Campaign. Also present to witness the announcement were distinguished Wish Judges, Wish Nominees, guests and Officers and Staff of BIBD.

The public will have a hand in selecting the Grand Awardee of up to BND 1,000,000 as their nomination will make up of the overall scored. Thirty percent (30%) of the scores of the 12 wish awardees who have reached the last round of the Wish Campaign will be determined by public nomination, while an esteemed panel of judges will contribute the remaining seventy percent (70%). The nominee with the highest score will be named as the Grand Awardee and will get the Wish Campaign Grand Award of up to BND 1,000,000.

This is but the final step in a thorough process that started back in March 2009 to select the most deserving wish-maker.

Wish stories were first shortlisted by an independent party, after which the corresponding wish-makers’ accounts were checked to ensure that they maintained the minimum balance of BND 2,000 throughout the campaign. Qualified entries were then given to the judging panel, who chose the wish awardees based on merit.

The 16,000 stories that were submitted since the start of the campaign showcased Bruneians’ ambition, selflessness and sense of purpose, with the nominees as the best examples.

“I wish to teach at the local university as an associate lecturer to gain experience first. To most people, it would mean a pay cut, but to me it is another chance to make a difference,” Dk Hajah Sofiana, a nominee who wanted to work towards a doctorate in hydro-geology, said.

Another nominee, Hjh Amal Lina Hj Tarsat, hoped to help autistic children by assisting the SMARTER in its fund raising effort particularly raising fund to buy a building to accommodate the ever increasing rate of autism in Brunei. “Normal individual are capable of generating their own savings if they want to, unlike those who does not have the capability like children and individuals with autism”, stated Hjh Amal Lina.

Hajah Maymon wished to build a new tourist destination, which she named The M Project, to preserve the traditional culture and heritage of Brunei, while Pengiran Dr Rahmah wished for a better facility for the Darusysiyfa Warrafahah organisation to further innovation in the Islamic medical practice.

Familial bonds inspired the wishes of Haji Ismadey and Dayang Masliza, the former working toward a comfortable for his family and the latter hoping to assist her sister, who is a single mother.

Hajah Norain wished not only to support her eldest child’s education and to repair her parent’s home but also to establish a Madrasa for children studying the Al-Quran.

The nominees also served as proof that a culture of savings has begun to take root in Brunei. Dayang Noorafizah, for instance, works toward financial freedom by saving a fixed amount every month.

“Apart from depending on life pensions, the only way to survive in the future is by planting the seeds now,” Ak Bahrum, another nominee who understood the importance of savings, said. He wished to alleviate the financial burden weighing on his shoulders as the sole breadwinner in a big family.

The Wish Campaign has led BIBD to realise that part of its role as a national bank is to make it easier for Bruneians to achieve meaningful goals and to bring out the best of Brunei through its work. Building on its experience with the first campaign, the new Wish 2.0 will be more adapted to customers’ various needs.

For now, the public is encouraged to select the nominee whom they think is the most deserving, based on the wish-maker’s current financial state, whether the wish-maker has shown the transformational role of savings in their life, and whether the wish is sustainable and inclusive.

Each person can submit their selection only once, through online (www.bibdwish.com) or SMS. Additional nominations will not be counted but will still be charged. Proceeds from the SMS charges will be donated to a charity that BIBD selects.

Public nomination will officially open on 2 March and ends on 1st April 2010, and nominees’ full stories can be read on the BIBD Wish website (www.bibdwish.com).

During the event, BIBD also presented Token of Appreciation to all 7 Wish Judges whom have participated and supported the Wish campaign by reading and judging the monthly Wish Stories submitted from April to December 2009.

Through the Wish Campaign, BIBD intends to help people confront the challenges they face and shape their saving habits. This campaign aspires to cultivate a culture of saving among Bruneians in a sustainable manner by encouraging account holders to increase savings every month.

BIBD also wishes to inspire philanthropic spirit through this campaign by inviting the better-off among us to embrace a wish. Potential benefactors can choose to fulfil any of the shortlisted Wish-Makers who are not sponsored by BIBD through the Wish Campaign website.

For more information regarding the BIBD Wish Campaign, visit http://www.bibdwish.com

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD) under its Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) today held an invitational netball tournament with government agencies and private organizations at the Headquarters of the Royal Brunei Police Force Stadium, in Gadong.

Some 120 participants from several organizations as well as BIBD’s CSR committee members were at the event. The participating organizations were BIBD, Takaful BIBD, Takaful IBB, HSBC, Standard Chartered Bank (SCB), Tabung Amanah Islam Brunei (TAIB), Tabung Amanah Pekerja (TAP), Yayasan SHHB, Brunei Shell Petroleum (BSP), Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MOFAT), JAPEM and DST.

The tournament kicked off with an official opening by BIBD’s Chief Financial Officer Hajah Noraini binti Haji Sulaiman.

Among the aims of the annual BIBD Invitational Charity Netball Tournament was for BIBD to foster close relationships with other organizations through sports and at the same time encourage women to adopt a healthier lifestyle. Additionally, the tournament hoped to build teamwork among peers both internally and externally.

The tournament saw teams showing their competitiveness, skills and team spirit.

The event ended with a prize presentation by the guest of honor Acting Director of Social Services at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports Datin Hjh Shireen Bte Hj Mustapha to the top three winning teams.

In conjunction with this event, BIBD also presented mock cheques with total donations of B$6,942.00 to three charity organizations including SMARTER, Learning Ladders Society and KACA who each received $2,314.00.

The donations were collected from the tournament’s registration fees as well as proceeds from charity events organized by BIBD in 2009. For every dollar raised from the public during the charity events were matched by the bank.

All pics courtesy of Cybercanon Photography.

1st place BIBD

2nd place Brunei Shell

3rd place TAP

Hjh Norain officialy opens the tournament

Experience the variety of choices of cuisines at Rizqun Coffee House. Patrons will look forward to enjoy dishes specially prepared by Rizquns’ chefs for the upcoming Chinese New Year Festivity. Promotion will be held on 13th and 14th February, 2010.

Local specialties include Malay, Chinese and Thai delicacies, from appetizers to desserts. Rizqun Coffee House will feature varieties of mouthwatering dishes at the buffet line such as Cantonese Fried Rice, Roasted Crispy Chicken with Mah Lat Sauce, Ma Po Tofu with Minced Chicken and from the stalls including Chicken Herbal Steam Soup Station, Rojak Nyonya, Frying Dim Sum Counter and also Sizzling Yee Mee Stall.

Also on 14th February, Rizqun will also be having a “Candle Light Buffet Dinner” for $25.00 for adults.

As an added bonus, BIBD cardholders are entitled to an additional 10 per cent discount when paying with their BIBD Mastercard.

Pics from the CNY Buffet preview for media hosted by the Rizqun Coffee House. All pics courtesy of Cybercanon Photography.

Yee Sang!

National Art Gallery

Trafalgar Square

The Lions of the Empire

I wonder how many times this area has been photographed

Especially these lions

Admiralty Arch

Hello ladies

Victoria Station

Stay tuned for part 3!

Day/Date: Saturday, 13 February 2010

Time: 8.00 am to 4.00 pm

Venue: Institut Teknologi Brunei (ITB)

Institut Teknologi Brunei will be organizing an ITB Information Day (InfoDay@ITB) on Saturday, 13th February 2010 at the University’s Campus in Kg Tungku. InfoDay@ITB is open to the public and prospective students from 8.30 am to 4 pm. Its aim is to provide information on the range of degree and HND programmes that the university will be offering in August 2010. Prospective students therefore will be able to make the right choice in accordance to their qualifications and interests. Among the activities during that day are:

• Personal consultation with ITB academics on the range of HND programmes and 4-year degree programmes available at ITB with explanation on ITB definition of ‘Discovery Year’.
• Exhibition on ITB students’ hands-on final year projects physical displays
• Laboratories tour where the labs are equipped with engineering and technological equipments available for teaching and students’ learning HECAS online registration tables and facilities. 

For prospective students and those students who have previously registered to make further enquiries

Pics from a day trip to London yesterday.

Waiting for the 8:57 to London St Pancras

Ahhh keretapi dah tiba…

Kecik nya tangaaaan

Chinatown all dressed up for CNY

Breakfast time

Closest thing to teh tarik… Yin-yang Tea

Tofu with dried shrimp and pickled veg. Interesting…

Coke so early in the day? Hmmm…

Self portrait time

No relation to Tai Ka Luk in Delima heheh

At the entrance to Chinatown

Stay tuned for part two!

USED cars have steadily become a force in the domestic automobile market with some dealerships of brand-new vehicles acknowledging their growth over the past year.

An executive of NBT (B) Sdn Bhd, sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles sees the domestic automobile market becoming more competitive because of the anticipated entry of more used cars.

"As long as there are used cars in the market, there will be competition, and other distributors will also offer some sort of competition," said Ninan Chacko, NBT managing director. "But the new player in market are the used cars." Asked how fierce the competition would be with used cars for the upcoming year, Chacko said: "I think that they are quite strong, especially with the yen as high as it is, the used cars provide an alternative for people who want to buy cars.

[…]

At the beginning of the year, sales of used cars surged mainly due to the recent increase in the prices of brand-new Japanese cars. A salesperson at a used car dealership said, “Usually we sell an average of five cars or fewer, but last month we sold about 20 cars and my boss has brought in more stock from Singapore because we see that we will continue (to see) this trend for this year.”

On my last trip home, I noticed the number of used car dealers was growing and car yards, a common sight here in UK, were mushrooming. The range of vehicles available was also growing with some of the more exotic cars being made available alongside the everyday commuters.

I spoke to a photog buddy of mine who recently got into the used car business with Bruneiusedcar.com and he confirmed the upward trend in used car sales last year and continuing this year. I asked him what type of cars were currently in demand and he said there were basically 3 types which were most in demand, the MPV, the budget saloon car, and the sporty two door coupes. All pics courtesy of Bruneiusedcar.com.

Toyota Picnic

Leather seat some more!

The MPV or 7-seater people carrier. I personally like these cars because of the convenience and room they offer, and I’m guessing so do most Bruneians with families! MPV’s come in all shapes and sizes and a fine example is the Toyota Picnic. Nothing too fancy but solid and reliable. At B$27,300.00, the price is definitely a lot cheaper than buying a new car! Plus its a Toyota I’d definitely take a look at this one to replace the aging Mazda…

Toyota Altis

Also leather seat leh! Got wood some more!

The budget saloon car need not be a no frills affair as this fine looking Toyota Altis shows. I wouldn’t mind getting around in this as an everyday commuter, would you? And at B$22,500.00 its certainly very affordable!

Mini Cooper

Wah, very sporty ah?

There are lots of sporty used two door coupes on the market to satisfy every boy racer’s whims and fancies, but I thought the Mini Cooper was a nice one because it also looks good on a girl racer heheh! This Mini looks like its quite high spec too, and for B$38,800.00 its quite reasonably had. Not quite The Guvnor, but it’ll do

Oh, before I go, now that assignments are done and theres a little break before classes start next week, I’m ready to do another lip-synch video. Which song do you reckon?

ALL the universities participating in the ‘Study in UK Exhibition’ at the Empire Hotel’s Grand Hall on February 2 this year have a very broad and strong portfolio of postgraduate programmes – both research and taught, according to HRD Services.

Interest in postgraduate studies among Bruneian students continues to rise – spurred on by returning graduates wanting to upgrade their qualifications, or for in-service personnel wanting to enhance their skills to meet the manpower requirements of their department or ministry.

British universities have an excellent reputation for its postgraduate programmes. UK universities pride themselves in undertaking groundbreaking researches, and students are therefore taught by leading authorities in their respective fields.

UK Masters programmes are usually of a one-year duration. Other strengths of a UK Masters programme include tight controls on quality of education, direct relevance of the programme to business and industry, as well as international recognition and respect.

There are two types of ‘taught’ courses: programmes that are designed to deepen the student’s knowledge, and conversion programmes that introduce the student to a new subject (for example, an engineer needing to pick up management skills). The awards are MSc, MA, MBA, LLM, MRes. The MA and MSc programmes will include some training in research methods and, for certain areas, students can choose to collect their data and research materials from Brunei.

Entry requirements vary from course to course – for certain courses, the students need to have a degree that is directly relevant to the programme they wish to pursue, whereas for conversion courses, students need to have a different background. For example, students with an accounting background cannot enter a conversion course in Accountancy. For Masters courses, most universities require the student to have a good Honours degree (usually 2:1 and above). Some universities will consider work experience as part of the eligibility criteria.

Some courses, especially vocational programmes, also require work experience. Hence, a new graduate in Education for example cannot enter a course on Education Leadership, as the student has no prior experience to draw on. Postgraduate courses also require a high proficiency in the English Language. This can be demonstrated by either having a degree that was taught in English, or an IELTS score of 6.5 or 7.

It is highly advisable that students who did their first degree a number of years ago do a refresher course in English to ensure that they can cope with often a very demanding programme. Research courses involve an in-depth study of a particular field, enhancing worldwide knowledge of that field. This study requires intellectual independence, time-management skills, passions for the subject and self-discipline. Research awards are Masters degrees (MPhil) or Doctorates.

At doctorate level, the options are Doctor of Philosophy (PhD), which is completely research-based, and New Route PhD (in vocational fields such as Engineering) and Professional Doctorates (DEng, DEd, DClinPsych) that combine taught and research modules, The Professional Doctorates are the fastest growing type of doctoral study. Students are professional practitioners usually investigating their own practice or organisation.

The best guide to assess the quality of a postgraduate programme is the Research Assessment Exercise, which evaluates the quality of research in universities. There will be a presentation on applying for PhD programmes by Suzanne Alexander from the University of Leicester at 5pm on Feb 2 at the Grand Hall of Empire Hotel. HRD Services, organisers of the exhibition, provide all support for postgraduate applications. They can be contacted on 2232811.

From their website (makes me think perhaps in London there’s a bit more focus in quality):

Founded in 1997 by Simon Woodroffe, YO! Sushi brought the concept of a Japanese ‘kaiten’ sushi bar that delivered food to customers via a conveyor belt travelling 8cm per second to the masses, and became the original and most famous sushi brand in the UK. YO! Sushi was a brand new concept in dining and catapulted Londoners into the 21st century which made us the most talked about dining experience.

Our customers queued around the block as we gave the capital a slice of Urban Tokyo – we even had robots serving our drinks! The experience was fun and exciting, whilst the food was revolutionary and made lovingly, as AA Gill (Sunday Times) pointed out in his review stating it was “the best sushi in London" and Fay Maschler (Evening Standard) said she had “seen the future and it is fun".

Happy Australia Day to all me ozzie mates near and far! Not much happening here in Leicester for Australia Day so I thought I’d re-post my slideshow from a couple of years back. Enjoy…

G’day mate, to-die is Australia Day and being a strine alumn-eye in brewn-eye, I was invited to the reception this arvo. Wishing all my ozzie mates near and far, a Happy Australia Day! Chuck another shrimp on the barbie, have an ice cold one and enjoy the slide show!

Pics from a day trip to Birmingham yesterday with some friends. Checked out the Bullring and the Chinatown. From wikipedia:

The Bull Ring is a major commercial area of Birmingham, England. It has been an important feature of Birmingham since the Middle Ages, when its market was first held. It has been developed into a shopping centre twice; first in the 1960s, and then in the 2000s.

The current shopping centre is the busiest in the United Kingdom with 36.5 million visitors in 2004, and is also the twelfth largest. It houses one of only four Selfridges department stores and the largest Debenhams outside of London. Consequently, the centre has been a huge success, attracting custom from all over the world, including New York.

The Chinese Quarter of Birmingham is an area with a predominantly Chinese influence as a result of a concentration of Chinese owned businesses, organisations and social clubs. The area now covers a neighbourhood that includes Hurst Street, Ladywell Walk and Pershore Street.

Many of the buildings in the area have Chinese architectural features and art including Chinese style roofs and wall murals in the Arcadian Centre depicting historical scenes typical of the Silk Road.

Waiting for the 1149 to Birmingham New Street

Passing through Coleshill Parkway

Walking towards the Bullring

The Bull in Bullring

These guys were overjoyed at the sight of the Bullring

Its pretty massive

Debenham’s ani kira macam Huaho bah ah?

First time ku meliat org naik escalator berqueue

Having a coffee while waiting for the gang to reassemble

Going towards Chinatown

Ahhh… home…

Glee Club

I take it there’s a large chinese community in Birmingham

Back at the train station

Waiting for the train to Leicester

This came in the mail today

From my buddy Aidy in Surrey

Aidy is an entrepreneur. He sells kayupuk by mail in UK. How cool is that?

He sent me some sample of the keropok losong to try

Complete with the sauce… Keropok and sauce are best friends

The keropok is made with fresh fish in Terengganu and Aidy ships it over to UK

The keropok losong tastes great, especially with the sauce!
Kinda reminds me of MOM’s acar and keropok.
I’m gonna be ordering some of this for sure!
What are YOU waiting for?
Details at the website and below:

Keropok ikan tamban (Sardine fish crackers)

Small packet -£1.70 (served up to 8 persons)
Large packet – £3.50 (served up to 25 persons)
Package – 3 large packets – £10

Keropok udang (Prawn crackers)

Small packet – £2.50 (served up to 8 persons)
Large packet – £5.00 (served up to 15 persons)

Keropok sira berlada (Spicy fish crackers) £1.50/packet

Cracker’s sauce available on request at £2.50/bottle

Delivery:

Small packet – 1 to 2 packets — GBP1.50 (2nd class Royal Mail)
Large packet – 1 packet — GBP1.90 (2nd class Royal Mail)
Package – 3 large packets — GBP3.00 (2nd class Royal Mail)

Apparently Aidy has been able to produce keropok lekor from fresh local UK fish! AWESOME! Waiting for his pricing now

Call Aidy on 07588045420 or email ekeropoklosong@googlemail.com to order!

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After the big hooha over raising credit card minimum payments and curbing of credit card issuance by the banks, and the subsequent suggestions to set up a credit bureau, this is a fresh approach by BIBD which I’m in full favour of. Bak kata pepatah, “Meluntur buluh biar dari rebungnya.”

Have you ever asked yourself…

Why didn’t anyone teach me about saving and investing when I was young?

Why don’t I understand the financial page of the paper?

Why is it some people have money and others don’t? What am I missing?

BIBD has gotten off to a good start, but what would be even more awesome would be FINANCIAL LITERACY programs for kids such as the ones run by Moneytree or Creative Wealth International. Now these would definitely go a very long way to ensuring we will have a new generation of money savvy Bruneians who will know how to manage their finances well!

Congratulations to BIBD on the good start, but lets take it up a notch!

Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD) today held a workshop on Financial Planning for the students at Sultan Sharif Ali Secondary School in Kg Salambigar.

Some 220 students from Year 7 (Form 1) attended the workshop presented by Chartered Financial Consultant, Dayang Nurul Jafriah binti Abdullah.

The purpose of the workshop was to instill the culture of savings while teaching the students the importance of it. It was also to encourage students to begin saving as early as possible.

Nurul Jafriah during her presentation talked to the students on how to differentiate between a needs and wants. She also did a demonstration on how to accumulate savings.

According to Nurul Jafriah, an early introduction to financial planning would help these students to associate the term “financial planning’ as they develop in life. She hopes the students will be able to increase their awareness on the importance of planning for their future, begin saving as soon as possible and spend wisely.

To make the presentation interesting, activities relating to financial planning were carried out. This was to ensure that the presentation is relevant to their level of understanding.

Pics courtesy of Ak Herman Pg Duraman

Good news peeps!

WHO’s Got Talent Season 2 is BACK! The competition is open to the whole of Borneo and to all ages. Bring in your talents, upload your videos and get voted! For more info and to join the competition, just log in to www.gayabmobile.com.bn. Bigger, Better Prizes awaits!

We Dare YOU!

Fancy a new car but don’t want to spend a bomb? How about a used car then? If you’ve never considered it, then now is probably a good time to take a good look at it as a serious alternative. Here’s a snippet of a recent article from BT:

USED cars have steadily become a force in the domestic automobile market with some dealerships of brand-new vehicles acknowledging their growth over the past year.

An executive of NBT (B) Sdn Bhd, sole distributor of Toyota and Lexus vehicles sees the domestic automobile market becoming more competitive because of the anticipated entry of more used cars.

"As long as there are used cars in the market, there will be competition, and other distributors will also offer some sort of competition," said Ninan Chacko, NBT managing director. "But the new player in market are the used cars." Asked how fierce the competition would be with used cars for the upcoming year, Chacko said: "I think that they are quite strong, especially with the yen as high as it is, the used cars provide an alternative for people who want to buy cars.

[…]

At the beginning of the year, sales of used cars surged mainly due to the recent increase in the prices of brand-new Japanese cars. A salesperson at a used car dealership said, “Usually we sell an average of five cars or fewer, but last month we sold about 20 cars and my boss has brought in more stock from Singapore because we see that we will continue (to see) this trend for this year.”

On my last trip home, I noticed the number of used car dealers was growing and car yards, a common sight here in UK, were mushrooming. The range of vehicles available was also growing with some of the more exotic cars being made available alongside the everyday commuters.

I spoke to a photog buddy of mine who recently got into the used car business with Bruneiusedcar.com and he confirmed the upward trend in used car sales last year and continuing this year. I asked him what type of cars were currently in demand and he said there were basically 3 types which were most in demand, the MPV, the budget saloon car, and the sporty two door coupes. All pics courtesy of Bruneiusedcar.com.

Toyota Picnic

Leather seat some more!

The MPV or 7-seater people carrier. I personally like these cars because of the convenience and room they offer, and I’m guessing so do most Bruneians with families! MPV’s come in all shapes and sizes and a fine example is the Toyota Picnic. Nothing too fancy but solid and reliable. At B$27,300.00, the price is definitely a lot cheaper than buying a new car! Plus its a Toyota I’d definitely take a look at this one to replace the aging Mazda…

Toyota Altis

Also leather seat leh! Got wood some more!

The budget saloon car need not be a no frills affair as this fine looking Toyota Altis shows. I wouldn’t mind getting around in this as an everyday commuter, would you? And at B$22,500.00 its certainly very affordable!

Mini Cooper

Wah, very sporty ah?

There are lots of sporty used two door coupes on the market to satisfy every boy racer’s whims and fancies, but I thought the Mini Cooper was a nice one because it also looks good on a girl racer heheh! This Mini looks like its quite high spec too, and for B$38,800.00 its quite reasonably had. Not quite The Guvnor, but it’ll do

Oh, before I go, now that assignments are done and theres a little break before classes start next week, I’m ready to do another lip-synch video. Which song do you reckon?

It has been over a year but it feels like just yesterday that I applied for the Chevening Scholarship using the online application form. The thing I remember most vividly was writing the personal statement. This is what I wrote:

“As a new media & communications professional with a sociology background, I am immensely interested in the way new media and the internet have shaped profound changes in society. The way we interact with one another, be it at home, at work, or at a wider, global level, has changed with the advent of the internet and the web 2.0, and currently, the web 3.0 phenomenon. The changes are brought about at a speed unheard of before this time. Never before has an understanding of the internet and new media been more important.

In Brunei Darussalam, there is a current shortage of people with new media experience especially from a government perspective. The broadcasting portfolio, which includes new media, has recently been taken on by the Ministry of Communications, and although there may be plenty of experience in the traditional broadcasting space, I believe there is a dire need for help in the new media component of this portfolio.

By undergoing this MA course, I hope to be able to track and study these changes from a Bruneian perspective and help my country’s government and relevant agencies foresee what the trends will bring about and prepare ourselves more adequately for whatever changes these trends may bring about, particularly the negative ones. I intend to set up an Advisory Council on the Impact of New Media on Society to advise the government accordingly.

In looking for a suitable course, I was drawn to University of Leicester’s MA in New Media and Society, particularly because of the title, which seemed very focused on my area of interest.”

Here’s what it says in the prospectus: “The MA New Media and Society course is a one-year full time taught course. It aims to provide students with a critical knowledge of the historical development and key paradigm shifts in the study of media, culture and communication and with a comprehensive grounding in the theories and research necessary for studying, analysing, and understanding media and communication processes in both national and global contexts. The course provides extensive training in communication research, methodology and theory.”

Fast forward to 20th September 2009, the last day of Ramadhan, after the final sungkai for Ramadhan this year, I was at the airport, bound for UK. To say this was a sad occasion is an understatement! Ushering in Aidil Fitri on a plane is something I have not done in a very long time.

At the airport before departure

The 18 hour flight to London was an uneventful one broken only by a short equally uneventful stop in Dubai.

On arriving in London Heathrow, I was pleasantly surprised that there was a representative from the British Council waiting for me with a card bearing my name on it. He was there to make sure I collected my advance stipend from the right Travellex branch and to make sure I had transport to Leicester. After collecting the stipend, I then told the gentleman that I had a coach from the University waiting to take me to Leicester. I thanked him and bade him farewell.

There were over 140 other students arriving at Heathrow on that morning, all bound for Leicester! And the next 3 hours were spent waiting for all groups to arrive. During the wait, friendships were made and numbers exchanged.

My new friend Susanna from Germany enjoying a sandwich during the pitstop

The journey from Heathrow to Leicester took about 2 hours with a pitstop in between where we bought ourselves some refreshments, some having their first meal of the day.

On arrival at Leicester, everyone headed towards their respective accommodations. I headed for Opal Court, which was about half a kilometer’s walk from the University campus. The “check-in” was quick and painless and I was in my room in less than half hour.

Opal Court. My home for the next 10 months.

I must say, I felt quite awkward seeing my room for the first time, having been used to much more “comfortable” accommodations in my house back home. But I soon came to terms with the fact that this was to be my “home” for the next year or so. That being the case, I might as well make it as comfortable as I can.

The B10E gang: Stephanie, Victoria, Kishore, Me, and Jennifer

My block of flats is reserved for post-graduate students and I had four post-graduate students as my flat-mates. Victoria from Taiwan/Canada who is doing a MA in Museum Studies, Stephanie from Cyprus who’s doing her MA in Management, Kishore from India, doing his MBA, and Jennifer from China, doing her MA in Marketing. Being in a post-grad flat means its more quiet and peaceful. Away from hormone-driven antics of the undergrads, which is great news especially if I needed to work throughout the night in my room.

International Cultural Night

At the English Tea Party

The sports afternoon

Orientation week went by pretty quickly with all kinds of events being organized for us freshies including an International Cultural night, a Freshers’ Fair, an English Tea Party, several ice-breaker evenings, and a sports afternoon which took place at Victoria Park near the university.

Raya gatherings galore

This week also coincided with the first week of Aidil Fitri and naturally, there were raya events being organized all over UK by Bruneian students from the various educational institutions. I was also invited to several of these events. They were great to attend because apart from the Bruneian food being served, I was also able to mingle with all the other Bruneian students who were in UK as well.

The Diwali Experience

The Diwali celebrations in Leicester is quite an experience to behold because of the sizeable population of folks of Indian ethnic origin. I was fortunate enough to be right there in the thick of the celebrations which took place in the centre of the city.

During the Chevening reception in Nottingham

The British Foreign Commonwealth Office together with the British Council organized several receptions for Chevening scholars in the various regions in UK throughout the months of October and November. The one for midlands was held in Nottingham at the end of October. I got to meet several of my fellow scholars and also the people behind the scenes from FCO and British Council who were in charge of making sure us scholars were comfortable and taken care of while in the UK. This was our opportunity to meet them and thank them personally for their tireless efforts. It was during this time also that I took the opportunity to get involved with the FCO’s Chevening online initiative by participating in the focus group and giving feedback and ideas on the Chevening website.

At Stamford Bridge!

In between weeks of attending lectures and seminars, and working on assignments in the library, I managed to squeeze in a couple of trips to London. One of the more memorable weekends in London involved a trip to Stamford Bridge football stadium in Fulham, West London to watch Chelsea FC play against Liverpool. It was quite an experience being in a stadium with over 40 thousand people all cheering at the same time. Definitely something everyone should try at least once during their time in UK!

I think thats about it for now. Merry Christmas to those who are celebrating, and have a blessed and peaceful New Year to everyone! Wishing everyone the best for 2010!

I really do LOVE tea… Jasmine Tea to be exact

BPS Photographer of the Year 2009

Best place to get Nikon gear in my book!

Passin through…

Modern wind turbines like these generate up to 4 gigawatts of electricity for British households! Wow! That’s a lot of juice!

Snow… outside my window

These Fried Chicken Wings give Lee Loi Fatt a run for its money!

Prawns with Mayonnaise

Delicious Silken Tofu

Sotong!

Black Pepper Beef

Lemon Chicken Fantastique

Sweet & Sour Prawns

For dessert, either Chinese Pancake

or this lovely Lemongrass Jelly

Until now I was never able to determine which was the male and  which the female.

I always thought that it had to be determined surgically, while ornitoligsts spoke about the feathers, the size, the beak and other equally idiotic ways that required hours upon hours of observing them in their natural habitat and so on.

Until now…

Below is a picture of two birds. Study them carefully. See if you can determine which of the two is the female.

It can be done.

Even by people with limited experience in birdwatching.

HAPPY MID-WEEK PEOPLE!

Damissus bought me exactly what I needed to bring back some of that photography mojo I seem to have lost… A Nikon D300S coupled with a Nikkor 35mm f1.8 AFS lens. Perfect street photography gear! This will be perfect for use in Leicester! Yayyy! Spent today getting the hang of the mellow yellow… a great BIG THANK YOU to damissus for her thoughtful gift. I Love You Sweety!

Looking forward to this!!

Today’s post is brought to you by my mystery guest blogger and all pics are by guest photog Badi of Jazz Inc.

Having dined at The Rizqun International Hotel Coffee House only once ever since it opened, I was pretty enthusiastic about joining Anakbrunei to sample their latest promotions which will start on 1^st January 2010 until 31^st January 2010.

To start with, the Business Set Lunch priced at B$7.99 will be available from 10:30am till 2:30pm. Consisting of a main course and dessert , there are 4 options to choose from:

Set 1

Rizqun Mee Soup
(Ginger Flavoured Seafood Ball Soup with Yellow Noodles and Vegetables)
Ice Cream of the Day

Set 2

Crispy Chicken Steak with Mushroom Sauce
(Boneless Chicken Leg with French Fries, Vegetables and Mushroom Sauce)
Choice from Assorted Dessert Counter

Set 3

Nasi Lemak Rendang Daging dan Sambal Bawang Manis
(Fragrant Coconut Rice with Beef Rendang and Condiments)
Assorted Sliced Fruits

Set 4

Panko Fish Fillet
(Crumbed Fish Fillet with Traditional Herb, French Fries, Tartar Sauce and Coleslaw)
Cream Caramel

Verdict: Good value for money and my personal favourite is the succulent Crispy Chicken Steak with Mushroom Sauce. The dessert that gets my vote is the cream mousse, rich with the taste of coconut cream yet light in texture.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Hot Slurpppp Gear Box promotion is priced at B15.00 and will be available from 10:30am till 11pm. It comes in a very generous portion and is suitable for 2 people to share. For the uninitiated, gear box soup is actually beef bone marrow soup, in this case infused with malay herbs, crackers, carrots, potatoes, celery and served hot with steamed rice.

Another option upon request is to have the gear box stewed in a Mediterranean style with tomatoes, olives, herbs, carrots, potatoes and served with pesto sauce and slices of garlic bread. This has to be one of the most interesting dishes I have ever tried and I absolutely loved it. The combination of rich tomato sauce and pesto went very well together.

Verdict: Real hearty dishes to tuck into and if you’re shy about slurping up all the yummy marrow bits in public, order it as a takeaway and you can enjoy the gear box in the privacy of your home

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Finally, the Private Kitchen Promotion features Crave a Dish from a Chef’s Table and is available from 10:30am till 11pm. January’s dish is Marbled Rib Eye Steak served with Gratinated Galuska Potato Pie, Chef Salad Bundles and Enoki Jus. Priced at B$21.00, it includes a glass of sparkling grape sarsaparilla as an aperitif.

Verdict: A highly recommended dish as the steak is so tender and the mushroom sauce has an interesting twist to it in that enoki mushrooms were used. For the potato pie, a shortcrust pastry was used to encase the potato cubes – making it very moreish.

AB and the gang wishes all readers of the
christian faith a very merry christmas!

Pics from Christmas morning two years ago at both St George’s and St Andrew’s churches. Some familiar faces in the throngs of worshippers. Wishing everyone a happy and blessed christmas celebration.

Getting ready for the service

L: Reflecting — R: Worshippers from all ethnic backgrounds

Familiar face in the crowd

Merry xmas Kenny and co…

It was a full house

Purpose, Praise, Price, and Promise…

Taking a seat outside…

Goodies from home…

Maligayang Pasko!

PDF Version
Facebook Event Page: http://bit.ly/7Dd6GU
Date: 20th – 21st March 2010
Location: United Kingdom
Keynote Speakers: To be announced

We invite Bruneian postgraduate students (Masters, PhD) from any discipline to submit abstracts on any aspect of how their previous, current or future research would contribute towards Brunei’s national vision for long-term development.

Any submissions which respond to this are welcome, and the themes you may wish to consider include (but are not limited to) education, technology and innovation, energy, health, food security, infrastructure, national identity, economic development and employment.

This two-day symposium aims to act as a platform for discussions between Bruneian postgraduate students from all academic disciplines as well as representatives from Brunei-based research organisations, ministries and policy-makers, and allow them to share their research, research experiences and resources and how they feel these will contribute towards realising Brunei’s long-term vision for development. We look forward to a diverse range of responses to these themes.

It does not matter if you do not have a fixed or specific research thesis, or if your current research is not based specifically on Brunei. We are open to your ideas on explorations of any potential research topics, the role you see the skills you are acquiring fitting into existing infrastructure, or how you can see your current research helping to contribute towards realising Brunei’s long-term vision for development, directly or indirectly. You may find it helpful to refer to Brunei’s Vision 2035.

Abstracts

Please send abstracts of 200-250 words for proposed presentations of 15-20 minutes to the Scientific Committee at brupostgradsoc@gmail.com by Thursday,  31st December 2009. Please include your name, faculty/department, university affiliation and contact email address.

This conference has been generously approved and given the full backing of Brunei Students’ Unit, London and Universiti Brunei Darussalam.

If you have any queries, suggestions or would like to request further information about the symposium, please do not hesitate to contact us at the above email address.

WELCOME IN 2010 by meeting and sharing stories from Down Under with some of Australia’s finest exports.. US!!!

Share your stories, enjoy light food and drinks with the B-AAA!

Where:  The Indera Pura Lounge, The Empire Hotel
When:   Friday 8th January
             5-7pm
Cost:     Members – FREE!!
             Guests – $15  
RSVPs:  Greatly appreciated to ensure we have enough of the good stuff on the day!!

If you would like to become a member on the day, pay only $30 for the year and receive discounts to all B-AAA functions whilst gaining access to a growing network of business, defence, education, employment and social networks and events!!

For all enquiries about the B-AAA or our monthly Meet N Greets, please contact Peta on enquiries@b-aaa.org or on 222 9435 (ext 221)

Looking forward to seeing your fresh face after a holiday season of festivities!!!

Dropped by the year-end showcase at the indoor stadium this afternoon. What a warm and humid afternoon it was! Some really excellent activities like RC car racing, new car displays, and modified car displays. Plus there were live performances by local bands as well. Great stuff. Pity I could only stay a while…

RC drift racing

I like this car

But I like this one even more!

Da little man’s entry into the car show

Da little man making last minute tweaks before the judging

Flyiiiing Foooxxxx

Snoozing Fox

Caught bits of A Band Once on the way out. These boys are goin places!

Standard Secret Recipe Menu

The crowd at around 9ish last night

Banana Chocolate Cake. I reckon Bananas and Chocolate are soul mates

My little friend was there too

Chocolate Cheesecake

This was my favorite… White Chocolate Macadamia Cake … Pretty AWESOME!

All pics courtesy of Pasirputih.com

Lamingtonnnnsss!

No shots of the brilliant food I’m afraid cos I arrived just in time for the prize-giving

Lovely prizes sponsored by various individuals

The Australian HC and the host for the afternoon

Kampung Bicester or Bicester Village is relaxed shopping haven in the beautiful Oxfordshire countryside, where spacious boutiques showcase fabulously discounted labels from the leading fashion and lifestyle brands normally only found in the world’s most exclusive shopping streets.

Shopping is pure pleasure (or pain depending on who’s paying haha!) at Bicester Village, where sophisticated boutiques, spacious boulevards, attentive service and a friendly, unhurried atmosphere combine to offer a truly unique retail experience.

There’s so much to enjoy here, whether it’s browsing prestigious boutiques at leisure for great-value buys, or sampling fine food and drink in the Village’s cafés and restaurants. And with such a rich selection of attractions nearby – from gorgeous scenery, imposing stately homes and historic towns to explore, to Michelin-starred restaurants and sophisticated places to stay – it’s easy to create a memorable itinerary around a Bicester Village visit.

The inside of this Burberry store was like Metro on a Sale Day. Macam sardine…

I love TUMI

Enjoy exceptional savings of up to 60% off RRP at more than 120 top-name boutiques, from Anya Hindmarch to The White Company, DKNY, Hugo Boss, Nicole Farhi and Salvatore Ferragamo.

Discerning fashionistas will seek out the Brit chic of Vivienne Westwood & Alexander McQueen, the opulent designs at Valentino, and the gorgeous boho creations from British fashion talent Matthew Williamson. And with so many brands to appeal to men — Charles Tyrwhitt, The North Face and Bose to name but three — even they will enjoy browsing for top-value buys.

What’s more, among the many fabulous brands featured are well-known names that have chosen Bicester Village as their only outlet boutique in the UK, so you can look forward to some exciting exclusives.

Ani kadai yang paling merbahaya ni

Jimmy Choo anyone?

How about Church’s for your gentlemen’s shoes?

Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is an independent international humanitarian organisation that delivers emergency medical aid to people affected by armed conflict, epidemics, natural and man-made disasters or exclusion from health care in more than 60 countries around the world.

Pics from an International Christmas dinner event organised by Leicester Friends of MSF. It was a wonderful evening filled with song and dance. I thoroughly enjoyed the performances especially the choir and the ballroom dancers!

On the way to the venue

Sabby’s twin singing an Akon tune

Violin recital by a lovely young lady

Ballroom dancing!

Snazzy shoes eh?

The president of Leicester FoMSF

This post is two weeks overdue as World Diabetes Day falls on 14th November annually but I felt it was important to create awareness among Bruneians about Diabetes as I think there may be a gap in understanding Diabetes among people. Despite the efforts made by the folks at MOH to educate the public, I think there are many out there who may be afflicted but go undiagnosed without knowing the danger it poses to them.

Diabetes education and prevention is the World Diabetes Day theme for the period 2009-2013. The campaign calls on all those responsible for diabetes care to understand diabetes and take control. For people with diabetes, this is a message about empowerment through education.

For governments, it is a call to implement effective strategies and policies for the prevention and management of diabetes to safeguard the health of their citizens with and at risk of diabetes. For healthcare professionals, it is a call to improve knowledge so that evidence-based recommendations are put into practice.

For the general public, it is a call to understand the serious impact of diabetes and know, where possible, how to avoid or delay diabetes and its complications.

In Brunei, the Ministry of Health held a World Diabetes Day Forum where YB Minister of Health said that Brunei is currently embarking on formulating a national diabetes plan that will include immediate action to address the serious diabetes epidemic in the country where as much as 25 per cent of the population is either diagnosed or at risk of developing the chronic disease.

Below is an excellent set of slides from the International Diabetes Foundation which explain the campaign and the disease.

World Diabetes Day 2009: Understand Diabetes, Take control

Bila seronok, aku cari….pasanganku
Bila sedih, aku cari….Mak
Bila berjaya, aku ceritakan pada….pasanganku
Bila gagal, aku ceritakan pada….Mak
Bila bahagia, aku peluk erat….pasanganku
Bila berduka, aku peluk erat….Emakku
Bila nak bercuti, aku bawa….pasanganku
Bila sibuk, aku hantar anak ke rumah….Mak
Bila sambut valentine.. Aku bagi hadiah pada pasanganku
Bila sambut hari ibu…aku cuma dapat ucapkan “Selamat Hari Ibu”
Selalu.. aku ingat pasanganku
Selalu.. Mak ingat kat aku
Bila-bila.. . aku akan talipon pasanganku
Entah bila… aku nak talipon Mak
Selalu…aku belikan hadiah untuk pasanganku
Entah bila… aku nak belikan hadiah untuk Emak

Renungkan:

“Kalau kau sudah habis belajar dan berkerja… bolehkah kau kirim wang untuk Mak?
Mak bukan nak banyak… lima puluh ringgit sebulan pun cukuplah”.

Berderai air mata jika kita mendengarnya. …….

Tapi kalau Mak sudah tiada – MAKKKKK…RINDU MAK…. RINDU SANGAT….

Berapa ramai yang sanggup menyuapkan ibunya
berapa ramai yang sanggup mencuci muntah ibunya
berapa ramai yang sanggup mengantikan lampin ibunya
berapa ramai yang sanggup membersihkan najis ibunya
berapa ramai yang sanggup membuang ulat dan membersihkan luka kudis ibunya
berapa ramai yang sanggup berhenti kerja untuk menjaga ibunya

Dan akhir sekali berapa ramai yang sembahyang JENAZAH ibunya…

Last weekend, three local artists, Hill, A Band Once, and Klip Band, signed a deal with Modasys Technology (provider and founder of Cooltones & 3g.com.bn) to give Cooltones & 3g.com.bn exclusive rights to broadcast, distribute their music and other mobile related contents owned by the Signed Artists for use and download by the subscribers of Cooltones & 3g.com.bn.

The event took place at Au lait Café in Kiulap. Present to sign the deal on behalf of Cooltones & 3g.com.bn is Hj Mohd Fawzi, Founder & Executive Director of Modasys Technology.

Fawzi exchanging documents with Hill

A Band Once

Klip Band

These artists commemorate the latest addition of local artists that deals exclusively with Cooltones 3g.com.bn. Modasys Technology announced that they will include more local artists in the future to be a part of Cool-Tones 3g.com.bn. Artists already dealing exclusively with Modasys Technology are Maria, The Seeds, ProjectTunes Artists and Phuture Phase Productions Artists, to name a few.

Fans of these local Artists can download their tones and other downloadable mobile contents related to the artists directly from wap.Cool-tones.net by surfing through the B.mobile Portal.

On the same day, Cooltones held a prize presentation ceremony for their weekly and daily winners of the cooltones pelangi radio quiz today at the Au lait Café in kiulap. The quiz is in conjunction with the BPL SMS Quiz competition which has started early October this year.

Weekly winners will receive vouchers worth of B$50 from Cooltones & 3g.com.bn sponsored partners, QQestore, CoffeeZone, Mar Azmala Petrol Station and b.mobile Communications. Daily winners prizes are sponsored by Au Lait Café where each winners receive meal vouchers worth of B$10 at Au lait.

Shahzale, the weekly winner receiving hs prize from Fawzi

Something to watch if you’re considering studying in Leicester

Hey peeps! For the next few weeks, I shall be bunkering down and working on assignments which are due soon. So updates will be few and far between… Do bear with me ya?

In the meantime, why not browse through some of my black and white works, or check out my reviews, or maybe even some of my recipes!

Below are the winners for the QQeStore Shop, Dine & Win Contest.
Congrats to all the winners!

The Equipment

From Wikipedia:

iPhone 3GS – The iPhone is an Internet and multimedia enabled smartphone designed and marketed by Apple Inc. The iPhone functions as a camera phone (also including text messaging and visual voicemail), a portable media player (equivalent to a video iPod), and an Internet client (with email, web browsing, and Wi-Fi connectivity) — using the phone’s multi-touch screen to render a virtual keyboard in lieu of a physical keyboard. The iPhone 3GS was announced on June 8, 2009, and has improved performance, a camera with more megapixels and video capability, and voice control

iPod Touch – The iPod Touch (trademarked and marketed as iPod touch) is a portable media player, personal digital assistant, and Wi-Fi mobile platform designed and marketed by Apple Inc. It is currently in its third generation (3G), which is available with 32 or 64 GB of flash memory. The third generation includes faster hardware (the same microprocessors, graphics engine and RAM as the iPhone 3GS), voice control, light sensor, and bundled earphones with a remote and microphone.

So, based on the above info, I am led to believe that the iPhone is just an iPod Touch with a phone function. Is that true? Well, there seems to be some debate about this and gearheads will definitely disagree citing major differences in the processing power and the UI.

However, the bottom line here for me is, do these performance and UI differences and of course additional phone function justify the extra money spent on the iPhone? Lets take a look shall we?

Pricing

According to the Singapore Apple Store, the ipod Touch retails at
468 bucks for the midrange 32GB version. 

QQestore lists it at B$455.00.

There is no pricing for the iphone 3GS 32GB on Apple Singapore Site

QQ lists it at B$1,488.00. Thats a difference of over B$1,000.00!! Just for an additional phone function?? Hmmm… kinda hard to swallow leh.. what do u think?

Get our very Own Brunei artist tones from Cool-tones Now. More NEW Brunei artists members tones included! Just go to wap.cool-tones.net via Bmobile portal to download your favourites now!

To all BAAA (Brunei Australia Alumni Association) members and also guests, there will be a food lovers event on the 13th of December. So this is open practically for everyone and it will be ideal if you are a student or former student in Australia but then again, anyone is invited.

If you are interested to join or know more about the membership, you can email at peta.pike@dfat.gov.au and she will be more than happy to assist you. So for those members and committees of the respective societies from Perth, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, Alice Springs, you name it…. you’re more than welcome to send your email and let’s get the ball rolling

BIBD is pleased to inform you that there are doing a Home Financing promotion starting today 18th November to 31st December 2009. Get the best pieces of Home Financing Benefits and get your dream home from BIBD today!

With the above promotion, BIBD are offering the most attractive offer in the market as the financing rate is as low as 5.5% MRB, subsidies of up to $8,000, attractive and generous gifts ranging from $300 – $800 and also FREE Processing Fees.

No other banks are offering this kind of attractive promotion offers. Why wait for the right time? The time to own a home is now.

Visit your nearest BIBD branch and apply for a Home Financing or call 223 8181.

Life’s security starts with BIBD.

The Human Resources and Administration Division of Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD) today held a blood donation at the 10th floor of its Headquarters in the Capital.

The aim of the event was to help patients who are in need of blood and to help save lives. This is the second time for BIBD this year to organise such an event as it is one of the bank’s way of giving back to community. It is also one of its social obligations.

At the end of the drive, 41 BIBD officers and staff donated a total of 20 litres and 500ml of blood.

With this, BIBD has indireclty helped patients who need blood especially accident victims, mothers with complicated pregnancies or labours, patients with blood disorders  as well as those who are about to undergo surgeries.

The Kaspersky Commonwealth Antarctic Expedition will see 8 women from the Commonwealth countries of Cyprus, Ghana, India, Singapore, Brunei, New Zealand, Jamaica and the United Kingdom brave blizzards, crevasses and temperatures below -30C as they ski over 900 kilometres across Antarctica to the Geographic South Pole.

Marking the 60th aniversary of the Commonwealth, the expedition aims to demonstrate the potential of greater intercultural understanding and exchange, while at the same time highlighting the achievements of women across the world.

The team members from Brunei, Cyprus, Ghana and Jamaica will be the first person from their nation to ski to the South Pole. Those from India, Singapore and New Zealand will be the first women from their country to do so.

Fantastic as these achievements will be, the expedition is about much more than national and global records. The team members will return to their home countries as role models to inspire others, particularly women, to reach beyond the expectation of others and follow their own path.

Representing a Commonwealth of 52 nations and 2 billion people around the globe, the expedition team is a diverse group of real women selected from over 800 applicants. Before joining the expedition many of the team members had never been in sub-zero temperatures, put on a pair of skis or spent the night in a tent – a fact which makes the challenge they are undertaking even more remarkable.

The 900km journey from the coast of Antarctica to the South Pole will take around 40 days. The team will survive on lightweight dehydrated rations and melted snow. They will sleep in tents on the ice at night and pull sledges containing all the food, fuel and equipment they will need. Travelling without a guide, the team will need to rely on each other to navigate themselves safely to the bottom of the world.

The team expect to arrive at the South Pole around New Year’s Day 2010.

Only three more months remain until one wish story, out of the 9,500 entries that the Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam Berhad (BIBD) Wish Campaign has received so far, claims the Grand Wish Award of BND1 Million. This grand award has been scheduled to be presented in March 2010 after an event of judges and public voting.

As the campaign heads into the home stretch, all its ten October Awardees move closer to fulfilling their wishes at the Seventh Wish Awards Presentation, held earlier today at BIBD’s Tungku branch. All 10 Wish Awardees were each granted with $8,000 worth of wishes.

On hand to present the awards was BIBD’s Acting Manging Director Javed Ahmad.

This time, some awardees sought support for their business. Rohaya Binti Haji Ahim, for instance, wished for a heavy-duty oven for baking Malay pastries, especially during the Hari Raya season. Siti Firoza Binti Haji Hamdi wanted to help her sister open a tailoring shop, while Noriah Binti Asnan requested for catering equipment.

Others wished for the comfort and happiness of their loved ones. Noormah binti Tuah hoped to eventually afford a seven-seater vehicle for her family, and Aishah Bte Haji Jai wanted to save up for a family home. As for Idazianna Binti Injeo, she would like to buy her father new fishing equipment and a boat engine.

This batch of awardees also showed how much they value education. Shamsul Bin Hj Abd Hamid wanted to have more funds for his children’s tuition fees and school stationery, while Noor Hadi Haji Noor Kaseh and Hjh Fatimah Bt Hj Talip both wished to support their children’s university studies.

Dayang Alimah Binti Awang Burut decided to use her wish to start raising funds for an 18-month old Malaysian boy, who needs to undergo corrective heart surgery. The father, who provides for his son and another three-year-old daughter on a general worker’s salary, is simply unable to bear the cost of the surgery.

Dayang Alimah hoped that bringing attention to their plight would inspire others to donate as well.

“As a mother, a Muslim and a Bruneian citizen, I feel like I want to help the family out of their misery. If not, at least I can donate some of [the money they need] and hopefully other donors will contribute,” she said.

Likewise, BIBD wants the Bruneian public to see the Wish Campaign not as an end in itself, but as a source of encouragement for them to continue their saving habits. It only takes a deposit of BND500 to submit your wish story.

Since the start of the campaign in March, more than 9,500 wish stories detailing hopes and aspirations have been submitted, showing how Bruneians are striving to sustain a culture of savings

Through the Wish Campaign, BIBD intends to help people confront the challenges they face and shape their saving habits. This campaign aspires to cultivate a culture of saving among Bruneians in a sustainable manner by encouraging account holders to increase savings every month.

BIBD also wishes to inspire philanthropic spirit through this campaign by inviting the better-off among us to embrace a wish. Potential benefactors can choose to fulfil any of the shortlisted Wish-Makers who are not sponsored by BIBD through the Wish Campaign website.

Every BND 500 increment in the CASA account entitles the account holder to submit one Wish Story. However, CASA account holders need to maintain a minimum of BND 2,000 throughout the campaign to qualify.

For more information regarding the BIBD Wish Campaign, visit http://www.bibdwish.com

If you’re in London, drop by Brunei Hall TODAY for the Telbru Worldfon Roadshow. Learn how Worldfon can make your communications with loved ones back home so much easier and cheaper! Pics from yesterday’s briefing for Bruneian government officials in UK.

Do’a sebelum taklimat

Awg Adri sedang memberi taklimat mengenai Worldfon

Pegawai2 ejensi kerajaan di UK mendengar taklimat

Jamuan ringan selepas taklimat

Bersama sahabat lama dan rakan kerja sewaktu di Kementerian Luar dulu

Penuntut2 sedang menikmati makan malam di Brunei Hall

Friday, 4 December: SIGNUM QUARTET from Germany

• Four extremely talented and highly acclaimed young people playing violin, viola, ‘cello. 
• Formal, classical music.
• In conjunction with the German Embassy.
• Tickets $25 adults, $20 members, $10 students

For reservations, please email brunei.music.society@gmail.com or you can buy directly from:

• Annette Dalman at ISB
• Phyllis Thin at JIS
• CfBT Office, Kiarong

Further information about the Quartet…
www.signum-quartett.de |  info@signum-quartett.de

Strong families make decisions, solve family problems, and do family work together.  Everyone has a role to play and everyone  participates.  Parents are the leaders, but the children’s opinions and efforts are invited, encouraged, and appreciated.

Making real decisions is good practice and can help children grow up to be responsible adults.  Children need opportunities to make decisions, to participate in family decisions, and to observe the parents’ decision-making process and results.

Children are more apt to carry out their responsibilities if they have some choice as to what those responsibilities are and can see how these particular tasks help the family. Teenagers are more willing to go along on a family vacation if they help decide where to go and what to do.  Older children and teens are more likely to accept limitations regarding purchases if they have an awareness of the family’s financial situation.

Letting children take part in decision-making says to them "You are important, and what you have to say counts." Many families have found that a family meeting improves communication and decision-making.  During a family meeting, every member of the family has  the opportunity to express opinions and ideas, offer compliments or complaints, and most importantly, be listened to.

YB Pehin greeting some of the guests

Present as the guest of honour was the Chairman of BIBD Pehin Orang Kaya Hamzah Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdullah bin Begawan Mudim Dato Paduka Haji Bakar who is also the Minister of Development. Also in attendance were members of the Board of Directors of BIBD, BIBD’s Acting Managing Director Javed Ahmad and Head of Corporate Banking Division who is also the Chairman of the Organising Committee for the event.

BIBD MD greeting the guests

The aim of the event was for the Corporate Banking Division to show its appreciation to its customers as well as an opportunity for its staff to strengthen their relationship with the customers.

The event also saw the soft launching of BIBD’s Corporate Banking’s new product ‘Musyarakah’. ‘Musyarakah’ is a financing solution designed to assist businesses to finance contracts awarded by the Government of Brunei Darussalam and or Brunei Shell Petroleum Berhad.

Soft launching of BIBD Corporate Banking’s
new product ‘Musyarakah’ by YB Pehin.

The product, based on the concept of Musyarakah, which basically means partnership which in principle refers to the commingling of capital provided by the partners for the purpose of sharing in profit from a pre-agreed business venture. Any profit derived from the venture will be distributed based on a pre-agreed profit sharing ratio, but a loss will be shared on the basis of equity participation.

Musyarakah Corporate Financing product is a facility specifically designed to assist entrepreneurs to finance business activities related to contract awards for the supply of goods either from the Government of His Majesty and Yang Di Pertuan of Negara Brunei Darussalam or Brunei Shell Petroleum Sdn Bhd.

Using the Musyarakah concept, the customer and the bank will participate in the project as equity partners. The customer and the bank will provide capital to finance the project and profit, if any, will be distributed between both parties according to a pre-determined profit sharing ratio. Losses, on the other hand, will also be borne by both parties but based on equity participation.

With this, the client will be entrusted to manage the business venture in the best possible manner to ensure its profitability. Although the bank agrees to share losses, the bank shall be immune from any loss which is caused by the negligence or misconduct of the client.

BIBD’s Corporate Banking Division is located at the second floor of the bank’s headquarters in the capital and also in Kiulap. For more information, please contact 2269555.

BIBD Corporate customers enjoying the excellent spread

Gulintangan or Guling Tangan?

YB drawing a prize

BIBD Corporate Banking Team Freestylin!

Ani serious sikit

This is Leicester Fire Station just opposite my dorm building.
Its undergoing renovations at the moment

Opal Court. My dorm.

Crossroads like these are very common here and are very useful in giving you an idea of where you are. Especially useful for people with lousy sense of direction (like yours truly heheh!)

The Park near Opal Court was named after Nelson Mandela in 1989

This is the plaque which was officiated by SA High Commissioner Mabuza in 2004

The entrance to the park

The Leicester Prison is in a Castle

HM Prison Service. Public Sector Prison. Ada Private Sector Prison kah?

Welford Road

The Finwick logo reminds me of Harrods somehow…

Tells you a lot about the populace…

I love the name of this place. Someone was probably sitting down at the Leicester market one morning and noticed a slug on the lettuce, and VOILA!

Speaking of market…

Fresh seafood anyone?

Leicester Market was voted Britain’s Favourite. Personally, I prefer Pasar Gadong

I like this shot… decisive moment…

Have you heard that Zimbabwe’s Robert Mugabe is selling blood diamonds on the world market? His brutal army has seized diamond mines, 200 civilians have been murdered, and profits are used to finance political militias. 

I’ve just signed an urgent petition urging international regulators meeting in Namibia this week to ban Zimbabwe diamonds,  sending a clear message that we do not want our gifts of love to finance hate.

We have just 24 hours to persuade regulators to act. Join me by signing the Avaaz petition below and let’s get a massive petition together that will be delivered directly to the meeting in Namibia.

http://www.avaaz.org/en/diamonds_for_love_not_hate/98.php?CLICK_TF_TRACK

Thanks!

From The Brunei Times:

THOUSANDS gathered last night at the Jerudong Park Amphitheatre for the Anugerah Pelangi or Pelangi Awards 2008/2009 showcasing some of Brunei’s most talented artists competing for the coveted award.

The Pelangi Awards hosted by Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB) is a highly anticipated event held once in every two years to honour and recognise the hard work and efforts Brunei’s artists has put into the entertainment industry.

This year’s event was themed "Fantasy", taking escapism from the "daily hustle and bustle of life". The five categories contested during the event consisted of Chosen Female Vocal in which Maria was awarded, whereas Chosen Male Vocal went to Fakhrul Razi. The Chosen Newcomer went to "A Band Once" and the Chosen Duo/Group category was taken by "The Seeds".

The B.Mobile’s Most Voted Award was chosen based strictly on public votes. This award is a partnership between PelangiFM and B.Mobile and was taken by Maria, who was awarded by the Chief Executive Officer of B.Mobile, Song Kin Koi, who is also Managing Director of Telecom Brunei Sdn Bhd (TelBru).

The presentation of the awards to the winners for each category was delivered by the sponsors of the event, consisting of Managing Director of TelBru Song Kin Koi and Dato Jack Ting of Cityneon Displays and Construction, who presented the awards for the Chosen Female and Male Vocals respectively.

All pics courtesy of SACRED-VISION. Thanks bro!

Group hug

ABO in da house!

No surprise as Best Female Vocals went to Maria.
Telbru MD presenting the award to her.

Best Duo, The SEEDS in action

Best Newcomer, ABO. On ya boys!

Dr Who, Phantom of the Opera, Wicked Witch, Grim Reaper, and Papa Smurf!

The HULK!

Cute!

The spread was delish! Pumpkin soup was very naisss!

In parts of northern England, there is a traditional festival called Mischief Night, which falls on the 30th of October. During the celebration, children play a range of "tricks" (ranging from minor to more serious) on adults. One of the more serious tricks might include the unhinging of garden gates (which were often thrown into ponds or moved far away). In recent years, such acts have occasionally escalated to extreme vandalism, sometimes involving street fires.

Bobbing for apples is a well-established association with Halloween. In the game, attempts are made (using only one’s mouth) to catch an apple placed in a water-filled barrel. Once an apple is caught, it is sometimes peeled and tossed over the shoulder in the hope that the strips would fall into the shape of a letter, which would be the first initial of the participant’s true love.

Other traditions include making toffee apples and apple tarts. Apple tarts may be baked with a coin hidden inside, and nuts of all types are traditional Halloween fare.

There has been increasing concern about the potential for antisocial behaviour, particularly among older teenagers, on Halloween. Cases of houses being "egg-bombed" or having lit fireworks posted through the letterbox (especially when the occupants do not give money or gifts) have been reported, and the BBC reported that for Halloween 2006, police forces stepped up patrols to respond to such mischief.

It was Nad’s birthday on Monday and we decided to throw here a little birthday bash at Roosters!

Couple of random night shots with the F70 at 8 seconds

The gang

Nad gets her present

Nice scarf!

Adam wanted it

Piri-piri Chicken!

Makan time!

This doner is da bomb!

Anyway, this is all part of my research into the whole Web 2.0 phenomenon and I was just wondering if this archive included my past (cringeville) web projects and it turns out they were! In full technicolour just the way I left them! Here’s a selection for your collective amusement:

Okay this is my personal website circa 2000

This is the official website for APEC2000. My baby during my MFA days. This site is still up and running believe it or not, and acts as a repository of official documents from APEC2000 which researchers from member economies still refer to

Ahhh this one is from the #Brunei Undernet website. Those were the days when channel #Brunei on Undernet had a userbase of over 2000. I’m still the channel manager but hardly ever keep up to date these days. Leave it to the young ones to administer

This is one of my first commercial projects which was done for Brunei’s first ever online catering service. You could basically work out your menu and get a quotation for your catering needs online. Cuma membayar ganya pakai usin kratas heheh!

Another version of the #Brunei website. The current version is here.

My company website. I had this thing for orange at that time for some reason…

More professional looking company site but by that time, blogs and content management systems had become popular and there was no longer any need to code HTML. The current version is here.

Nottingham Castle is a magnificent 17th century ducal mansion built on the site of the original Medieval Castle, with spectacular views across the city. Nottingham Castle is a vibrant museum and art gallery housing collections of silver, glass, decorative items, visual arts, paintings and Nottinghamshire Archaeology and History. The galleries also bring the best regional, national and international artist’s work to the city.

Nottingham Castle is 10 minutes walk from Nottingham City centre, with easy access from train and bus stations. Parking is close by. The Castle is a great place for children, with interactive displays,and an activity – led gallery bringing paintings to life, specifically for the under 5s plus a medieval – style playground in the grounds with covered picnic area.

Having a quick focus group meeting before the reception

Many countries represented including jordan, Libya, S.Africa, Bangladesh etc

The gallery where the reception took place is called the Long Gallery. It houses a permanent display of the best of the museum’s fine art. Richard Parkes Bonington, Dante Gabriel Rossetti and Dame Laura Knight are among the artists on display in the Long Gallery.

Guess where these ladies are from

Cleo from my university’s International Office, Scott from Vancouver,
and Jo from Warwick University

Random shot

The group shot at the end

Nottingham Train Station

Bus or Taxi ah?

Festive

Signing in

El Presidente Adi giving his welcoming address

Drama student Brunei

Stay tuned for Bab Kedua

The Chinese State Circus has a characteristically quiet charm. The level of skill is so phenomenally high that any razzamatazz gloss is redundant. These distinctively Chinese performance arts are thousands of years old yet they still retain the capacity to entertain in this third millennium.

Featuring Swinging Poles, Spinning Plates, Hats Off!, Contortion, The Shaolin Wu-Shu Warriors, The Monkey King, Olympic Stars, Diablos, the 2008 World Circus Award nominated Sensual Silks and Hoop Diving.

Not much happening apart from going hunting (for books!) everyday at the library and working on assignments and figuring how to tackle that big ass dissertation

Remembrance Sunday is just around the corner, so lots of poppy plants are being planted especially around war memorial sites. This one taken at the memorial site near Universty.

The war memorial

Sign spotted on the road looks almost like a hand-drawn cave painting

Dogs are treated very well here as you can see…

Met Hafiz and his friends who were on a school visit

Buddy from Loughborough came by to hang out. Nissan SPORT kali ahhh

Dancing girls at Highcross

Deben?

This beautiful Rangoli was created specially for Diwali

Huge cinema complex. Tiga atau empat tingkat.

Oh, Abhar’s mum came over so she cooked us a lovely home-cooked meal!

Orang kekanyangan… hehehe

What are you doing this weekend? If you’re looking to catch some awesome rugby action featuring our very own boys playing against some monster teams from the likes of India, Malaysia, and Philippines, then come on down to Belapan Sports Complex and support our anak Brunei! Plus there’ll be a carnival just outside the complex for the kids! It’ll be a great day out! I wish I could be there!

iRB Asian Rugby Sevens Series – Brunei 7s is the 3rd leg of the 6 leg Series. 2009 is the inaugural year for this series. The Idea of this series is:-

1. Opportunity for all ARFU Members to participate in an ARFU Sevens Tournament
2. Produce a ‘ranking’ of Asia Teams
3. Provide a ‘pathway’ for ARFU members to the IRB World Sevens Series
4. Preparation for Multi Sports Events in Asia

The Bidding to be one of the host of this series was done in Dubai during the World Cup 7s. Brunei was awarded together with 5 other Countries:-

1. China
2. Philippines
3. Malaysia
4. Iran
5. Sri Lanka

BRFU believes that by hosting this tournament, it will not only promote the game in Brunei, but also promote Brunei as Sports Tourism Destination.

Starting from next year onwards, BRFU will promote this tournament together with promoting Ecotourism in Brunei. We are hoping to work together with the Heart of Borneo (where BiBD is also a partner) as well as Brunei as a Scuba Diving destination, as a package to promote and attract tourist to come to Brunei.

Our aim for this year is to attract the local to be part of the Rugby Carnival. Once we know how the system works, we will market the Brunei 7s Brand abroad, with the help of Brunei Tourism.

Rugby tourism is a big market, each year during the Hong Kong 7s, USD187 million in tourist dollars are pumped into Hong Kong and about USD90 million is pumped into the Dubai 7s. We in BRFU believe that by promoting Eco-Tourism here, it can attract tourist from abroad as we have set a precedent on a clean family fun Rugby Carnival.

We would like to thank you all the our partners for their part in helping us promoting the Brunei 7s Rugby Brand, and we hope that this Brand can be famously known for years to come.

Diwali – The Festival of Light

Sebelum mengayau, makan dulu… di Nando’s lah mana lagi heheh!

The gang

With Wendy and Nad

As expected the fireworks were AWESOME but my fireworks pics were blah!

With Selena from Vietnam

Saturday afternoon was spent in the company of over 300 fellow Bruneian students from all over UK on board the Dixie Queen going up the river Thames. The Hari Raya gathering was superbly organized by the Brunei Students’ Union and sponsored by quite a number of organizations including the Brunei Students’ Unit (UPP), BLNG, Yayasan SHHB, Widewater Ltd, and surprisingly, The Rizqun International!

The day started early at the train station…

Enroute to London with the sounds of Nusrat Fateh Khan

First group of Bruneians appeared just outside the Tube station

And then came the torrent of Bruneians heheh

This one is for da missus’ ex-colleague

This one’s for my buddy in NYC

A time to meet old friends

This one’s for my buddy at BAG Networks hehe!

As promised Cikgu

Makan time! Stay-tuned for Part Two!

I like this shot

Ada lagi Pop Mie menyalat tu

Cukup kah meh nya ani?

Periuk bujang ni namanya… hahaha!

Mimi explaining to the TV crew how Indomie is prepared…

Ya, ini bumbu nyaaaa

Menunggu makan

Too many chefs?

Adengan campur-menyampur

This sad looking plate of Indomie tasted really good!

Inda cukup makan meh saja, misti sama ruti!

Adam’s Pièce de résistance

Langis wang?

The Gang

Over the weekend, I had the pleasure of visiting one of England’s finest countryside resorts, Stapleford Park. What a lovely place to spend a weekend or two in! Thanks S for letting me roam freely around the establishment. I really enjoyed myself

Secluded in the heart of some of England’s most picturesque and enjoyable countryside, Stapleford Park Country House Hotel & Sporting Estate provides standards of hospitality and elegance found in only a few hotels and resorts around the world.

Steeped in history Stapleford Park, as one of England’s finest stately homes, offers a stunning blend of architecture and landscape. Stapleford Park offers something unique for each guest who experiences the breathtaking views from the main house together with the ambience of open fires. Stapleford Park is far more than its magical environment, for excellence is sought and achieved in all areas.

Stapleford Park boasts an astounding array of the most exclusive leisure and relaxation facilities. For many there never seems to be enough time to fit it all in. The solution is simple… just visit again!

Pics from the Hari Raya open house at Linton Road where a number of Bruneian students are living in a few houses. It was an awesome night spent in the company of some wonderful young people who welcomed us with traditional Bruneian warmth and hospitality. Thanks guys for the lovely evening!

Dear friends,

The winner of the 2009 Nobel Peace Prize has just been announced — and it’s US President Barack Obama.

We’ve seen big shifts since Obama replaced George W Bush. The Nobel committee say they’re rewarding him for the hope he’s sparked. He deserves our congratulations! But on too many urgent issues, Obama is still boxed-in by stubborn interests, holding him back from bold action for peace.

Let’s define this Prize for the media and Obama himself as a challenge to be bold — let’s flood Obama with a million global congratulations, urging him to turn hope into world-changing action in the coming months, on nuclear disarmament, peace not war in Afghanistan and Iraq, and a fair and lasting peace in the Middle East. Sign the Obama Peace Petition now and we’ll deliver it directly to the White House — then forward this email to all your friends:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/obama_peace_prize/98.php?CLICK_TF_TRACK

In his Cairo speech this June, Obama spoke of “the world we seek” — one where “extremists no longer threaten our people, and American troops have come home; a world where Israelis and Palestinians are each secure in a state of their own” and nuclear energy does not trigger conflict — a world where governments serve their citizens, and the rights of all are respected.

Obama’s words have offered a compelling vision of profound change: all this cannot be achieved overnight. But his push for Middle East peace has not yet been strong enough to overcome the resistance of hardliners in the region. Meanwhile, hawks and conservatives in the US are pressing him to commit 40,000 more troops to Afghanistan, instead of changing course to focus more on peace, development and diplomacy.

There is a real risk today that the hope of change will be lost. Leaders are judged finally by their actions, not their words. Only by following through with courageous, transformative action for peace can Obama fulfil his promise — and only then will history judge that this Nobel Peace Prize is truly deserved.

We know Obama cares about global public opinion — indeed, we may be his best conscience. So let’s send him a flood of congratulations and urge him to fulfil his promise through real action — take action now at this link, then spread the word, and we’ll deliver a global flood of signatures direct to the White House:

http://www.avaaz.org/en/obama_peace_prize/98.php?CLICK_TF_TRACK

With hope and determination,

Paul, Raj, Brett, Graziela, Pascal, Paula, Iain, Alice, Ricken, Benjamin and the whole Avaaz team

These pics are from last night’s dinner at Tinseltown with Qidah and her folks who will be leaving for Brunei on Sunday. Thank you once again to Dr Sablee and family for their warm hospitality towards us students here during their visit.

Interesting road sign which was quite thought provoking at the time

Tinseltown Diner is popular with locals & foreign students alike

Checking out the menus dulu

Was sooo tempted to order a T-Bone but settled for this instead

Nad and Qidah mesmerized…

… by our friendly waiter

Yup thats a pint of the black stuff!

Qidah n her mum had this HUGE mixed grill!

While I had these…

Mirul tucking right in!

Everyone had lollies for dessert

I like this shot… it feels so COLD!

The New Walk Museum

Trying out the Pro-Focus mode on my new F70 EXR

Krispy Kremes as a night cap before calling it the day…

Two UBD Students to study at the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts in UK

Ampuan Siti Ramlah (left) and Muhamed Rusydi (right) holding their passports with their student visas with His Excellency Mr Rob Fenn, the British High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam

Two UBD students will be leaving for the United Kingdom this Saturday, 10 October to further their studies at the Prince’s School of Traditional Arts (PSTA) in London, demonstrating the growing Islamic and educational links between Brunei Darussalam and the UK.. 

Ampuan Siti Ramlah binti Ampuan Babba and Mohamed Rusydi Roseli, both second year students at UBD, will spend a year studying Visual Islamic and Traditional Arts at PSTA. The diploma is part of a one-year international exchange programme with UBD and follows up on the visit to Brunei last year of His Royal Highness The Prince of Wales, who founded the school.

Ampuan Siti Ramlah and Mohamed Rusydi are undergraduates of UBD’s BA(Education) Art and Design. They have been selected for the programme following interviews and submission of their portfolios to PSTA. Ampuan Siti Ramlah is a member of the Brunei Art Forum where she is the youngest member of the group. She has attended art exhibitions outside Brunei. Mohamed Rusydi is one of the founders of another art group known as G5 or Fifth Generation Artist, a group made up mostly of students who have a passion for art. He has been taking part in many art competitions both locally and abroad.  

Muhamed Rusydi said that both of them feel very lucky to have been selected to attend the programme. "I am very excited to be able to further my studies in the UK and I look forward to knowing more about Islamic Arts, both in theory and practice," he said. Siti Ramlah also looks forward to studying abroad, as this would be her first time to live outside Brunei.

A continuation of my trip to London over the weekend

Bayswater Station

Guess which famous road this is?

Dropped by at Brunei Hall…

and bumped into these lovely young ladies

and then it was off to Brixton for a quick recce

Brixton is said to be a “rough” part of town for some reason…

… but by the name of this restaurant, one would think not

And then in the afternoon, it was time to catch the football at the ‘Bridge

With da boys! Tks jib for taking this pic!

We were at the Zola Suite which is 5 storeys up!

On the way home, a quick stop to buy an interesting T-Shirt

Well it looks like Nando’s is the defacto dining destination for Bruneians in Leicester. Last week we had a meet n greet dinner for Bruneians in Leicester and it took place at… yup, Nando’s.

Congratulations DJ Hani on your nikah yesterday!

Ok for those of you who’ve been following me on FB and Twitter you’d know that I went walkabout to London over the weekend. Here are some of what I saw and photographed along the way

While waiting for the train to London, I stopped over at Nando’s… and apparently so did a whole bunch of Bruneian students from Loughborough! Hi guys!

Sorry I just said hi and bye guys but I had a train to catch! See you all this weekend

First stop in London was Hamleys for some reason :$

Ani baru yaaaa

Picadilly Circus

Leicester Square of course

National Portraiture Gallery

It was freezing so I got me a Hot Chocolate here

Penny’s back from her Handbag shopping trip and check out the bags she bought!

For the past week, the Continental Market, an annual event in Leicester, has been taking place around the Clock Tower, Gallowtree Gate and the pedestrianised High Street.

On offer at the market were produce and goods from around Europe, ranging from Sicilian olives and German sausages, to French crepes and Finnish knitwear.

Italian hams and cheese, traditional Greek food, and Dutch food including cheese, waffles and liquorice were also on offer. Other highlights include the Portugese delicatessen, the Polish Smerja bar, and a noodle bar.

Enroute to the City Centre

Stalls all along the High Street

A taste of France?

Check out those giant tubs of Nutella!

Fresh Paella! Ahhhh my favourite!

Seriously huge Paella pans here!

Tartiflette – French for Spuds and Cheese

Interesting versions of Belutak

Springbok and Wild Boar anyone?

The Potatoes Provencal were not as good as the Creamy Garlic Mushrooms

Bermacam-macam juadah

OK this one is called BRATWURST!

Big crowd

All sorts of tarts! Was so tempted to buy lah!

This bunch could easily be my kids

Met an ex-classmate and Telbru colleague, Dk Minah, who was sending her daughter to Leicester. Hi y’all! Nice meeting you!

Pace of life in Leicester can be quite slow…

Adam and Qidah arguing about where to go makan

You’ll be seeing a lot more of this clock tower…

In the high street, there are some nice buidlings I’ve yet to explore

Ahhh makan time!

Qidah’s dad who was known as “London Taxi” when he was in UK in the 70’s, because he knew every nook and cranny of London heheh!

The mini open house at Qidah’s

Krishna Consciousness Society

Burlesque Society

Sri Lankan Society

Dominoes Society?

Mosh Nightclub

Christmas Ball Society?

This is one specifically for oldies like me… heheheh

Every Thursday is Disco Porn Night!

My friends from LUST

The pavillion filled with bodies

Philosophy Society.. I like toh!

Labour Society

No points for guessing this society

Ahhh closer to home

The rush for registrations!

As with the majority of the universities here in UK, Leicester has no shortage of International students. As such, it has become a tradition to hold a cultural night during freshie week. The venue was quite packed with students from all over the world including Cyprus, Turkey, Tibet, Nigeria, Ghana, Taiwan, Spain, Germany, Canada, USA, Pakistan, Australia and many others. The greatest numbers however, came from China and India.

New friends from India

L to R, Wendy from Macau, Adam from Brunei, Yoke from Malaysia, Nad from Brunei, and Robin from Singapore

Canadians!

Canadian Chinese?

I like this shot.. very gangsta hehe

There was a belly dancing performance which was quite entertaining

 

Each year, World Tourism Day has a Theme and a Host Country. In 2009, Ghana will be the Host for the 30th World Tourism Day under the theme : “Tourism – Celebrating Diversity”.

Brunei, a member country of the UNWTO since 2007, has decided this year for the first time to mark World Tourism Day in its own modest but significant way.

As YB Pehin Dato Awg Hj Yahya, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, under whose responsibility tourism falls, commented, “though Brunei is a relatively young player in the international tourism arena, my Ministry, through the efforts of the Tourism Department, is working towards the development of this important economic sector, while ensuring that such development is sustainable and in line with the socio-economic and cultural realities of Brunei. Joining UNWTO, and now marking World Tourism Days, are some of the ways in which the country will integrate more and more with the worldwide tourism community.” 

On the occasion of joining the global community in the celebration of World Tourism Day, YM Dato Awg Hj Hamdillah, Deputy Minister of Industry and Primary Resources cum Chairman of Brunei Tourism Board declared : 

“In my capacity as chairman of Brunei Tourism Board, it is our pleasure to be a part of the global celebration to commemorate World Tourism Day.

To mark our participation, Brunei Tourism Board and Brunei Heart of Borneo National Council will showcase together with the other stakeholders the national drive to develop and grow our Ecotourism Industry.”

The exhibition on the Heart of Borneo initiative, including photographic displays of some of Borneo’s most iconic wildlife, will be held at the newly opened Kampong Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery, opposite the capital’s waterfront, from Sunday 27 September to Sunday 4 October 2009, from 9AM to 5PM. 

According to YM Sheikh Jamaluddin, Director of Brunei Tourism Development Department, “the public at large and visiting tourists are encouraged to join the tourism authorities in the celebration of World Tourism day by visiting this exhibition celebrating Brunei’s diversity, while at the same time taking the opportunity to discover the new Kg Ayer landmark.”

Yesterday, I dropped by the University Chaplaincy for an English style tea… the scones with clotted cream and jam were AWESOME! A nice little event which allowed freshies to mingle and get to know one another.

YUMMMZZZ!

Not all were there for sports…

Swing!

Kacang apa?

*Swing*

RUN RUN!

Batah udah inda duduk tangah padang camani

Guess who ruled the cricket?

Basketball!

REJECT!

The LUST crew!

Interviewing a French and German student

Leicester is a city and unitary authority area in the East Midlands of England. It is the county town of Leicestershire. The city lies on the River Soar and at the edge of the National Forest. In 2004, the population of the city proper was estimated at 285,100, with 441,213 living in the wider Leicester Urban Area, making Leicester the most populous city in the East Midlands, the 10th most populous settlement in the United Kingdom.

Ancient Roman pavements and baths remain in Leicester from its early settlement as Ratae Corieltauvorum, a Roman military outpost in a region inhabited by the Celtic Corieltauvi tribe. Following the demise of Roman society the early medieval Ratae Corieltauvorum is shrouded in obscurity, but when the settlement was captured by the Danes it became one of five fortified towns important to the Danelaw.

The name “Leicester” is thought to derive from the words castra of the “Ligore”, meaning a camp on the River Legro, an early name for the River Soar. Leicester appears in the Domesday Book as “Ledecestre”. Leicester continued to grow throughout the Early Modern period as a market town, although it was the Industrial Revolution that facilitated an unparalleled process of unplanned urbanisation in the area.

Diwali’s gonna BIG here in Leicester!

Urdu… a unifying language

My “Home” Wall

Early morning throng

The student volunteers are great. I would have loved to volunteer next year too

Nad and Robin registering for City Tour

Nalik?? NALIK??

Can u tell me what this is?

It was a lovely sunny day

Met another Bruneian family today

Exchanging numbers

Taking a stroll towards Opal House

London from the air

There were over 150 students bound for Leicester alone!

Red tag for Opal Court

Nice tattoo

Guess where this is?

Pit stop halfway to Leicester

BK!

Opted for some coffee and a multigrain bicky instead

Self-portrait

Sandwich? No thanks

My new German friends whose names I cant recall

Parallels 4.0 for Mac. The major clincher in my plunge into the Mac world

Sad face at the airport

Another sad face

One of these ladies is a KristalFM DJ… mana satu ah?

Tks dudes for dropping by to see me off

Last snap wit da gang before going…

‘I.K.T.S’ is one out of the 11 songs of Karacoma’s album where by the album is targeted to be released in December 2009.

The music video was directed and produced by Adam Groves of Visual Dimensions Production  and location shoots was provided by Easyorange Advertising.

‘I.K.T.S’ will be released for online viewers of youtube and facebook on Friday, 18 September 2009.

The music video is another medium for Karacoma to showcase their work locally and globally with hopes that future music videos will be produced.

Due to the expected Pay Day Jam, we parked at Guan Electrical and walked to EO’s office. Enroute, I came across mutt central heheh.. looks like canines also like to hang out at luxury car showrooms

Sam Siren, lead singer for Karacoma, with the man behind the video, Adam Groves

Karacoma lineup:

• Sam Siren- Vocals
• Maw- Guitar
• Jaz – Lead Guitar
• Adi- Drums
• Wayne- Bass

Karacoma formerly known as Senjakala, started out as a side project due to creative tension in the band during the recording of Senjakala’s album.

Senjakala was a well known local band that released a few songs in 2003 and in the mist of the tension that arose in the recording of Senjakala’s album, Mawi the original guitarist and founder of Senjakala ventured out to form Karacoma with Jaz of Krematory and Adi of WanLongKok/Senjakala in search for creative freedom.

As Karacoma progressed, Sam join in later on as she feels that a few of her songs were not suited for Senjakala . Finally in 2008, Wayne join in as  their bassist and with that closes the gap within the circle of Karacoma.

Karacoma first single Paranoia, went straight to number 4 on Kristal FM charts however the band was unable to fire full cylinders and capitalize at that time because Sam had to further her studies in Melbourne, Australia.

Karacoma made several failed attempts to record a full length album till 2008, where they decided to record on their own home recording studio which started from April to September 2008.

As the album recording was nearing to its completion, everything was recorded except for some of the bass tracks. Due to dissatisfaction with the bass tracks cause by the lack of equipment ,some of the bass tracks was done in Germany by Yenz Leonhardt who plays for Iron Savior, Savage Circus, Stormwarrior, and the touring bassist for Lacrimosa .

In April 2009,the album was mixed at Chapel Studio, Lincolnshire, UK, by Simon Efemey who is most noted for his work with metal and hard rock groups, including Napalm Death, Paradise Lost, Amorphis, and The Wildhearts . Chapel Studios is a well known studio whose client include MachineHead, Bullet for My Valentine, Cradle of Filth, the Darkness, Arctic Monkeys, Lamb of God, and many more .The mastering dates will be announced later possibility at Foel Studio in Wales with Chris Fielding .

The album’s target release date would be December entitled ‘Shattered Mirrors’ which consist of 11 tracks such as IKTS, Paranoia, December Snow, Fire Conspiracy, and Bittersweet Symphony .

Currently, Sam and Wayne are in the process of designing and conceptualizing the album cover for Karacoma.

The video for the single IKTS was shot by Visual Dimension Production and directed by Adam Grooves .

BIBD wishes that the discipline and inner strength of Bruneian Muslims have built over the Ramadan period will be extended to their decisions for Hari Raya spending.  Very often, people are overwhelmed with the festive mood and get carried away in their spending, only to accumulate debts over a few weeks.

This month marks the fifth batch of BIBD Wish awardees where the ten Wish-Makers will receive their wishes, worth a total of B$80,000. These awardees’ main concern is to earn a better livelihood for their families.

Presenting the awards was Acting Managing Director of BIBD Javed Ahmad. Also at the ceremony were Hj Mohd Rozaiman bin DSLJ Hj Abd Rahman, Head of Consumer Banking Division and other heads of BIBD at its Kiulap Branch.

One of the Wish awardees, Hj Sahrin Nizar Hj Nohi wishes to save more for his family. He said his wife wants to open up a small business selling apparels and accessories, and would like to help her achieve this. Hj Sahrin shared he also wants to save up to buy a new van for his family and his wife.

Pg Roseli bin Pg Haji Hashim, on the other hand, wishes for a dream home. According to Pg Roseli, “I hope to get it as soon as possible in order to ease my worries and to ensure the happiness of my wife and children.” With this wish award, Pg Roseli will hopefully be one step closer to achieving his dream.

Hjh Rahimah who sells coconut husks is looking for ways to be able to increase production. At the time being, the method of peeling old coconut husks is done manually and for her, she has only been able to produce two boxes a day. Her wish is to own a machine that peels off the husks of the old coconuts and with it she said she would be able to produce 15 boxes a day.

“My wish is to buy a boat with an engine for my father who is a fisherman,” Junainah Haji Ahmad another wish awardee shared in her wish code. Almost everyday, her father would go off to sea to fish, so he could sell them for income to support her brothers and sisters who are still in school. She wishes for a new medium sized boat that will allow her father to store his fishing equipment safely and at the same time ensure that he will have safe fishing trips.

One of Siti Jalia bte Haji Dullah’s wishes is to bring her family to perform the Haj, which she has been trying save for nine years. With this award, hopefully she will be able to achieve this wish.

Suhaimi bin Omar’s wish on the other hand is to fix his home at Kampong Ayer, which he inherited from his parents who have passed away. He not only wants to repair the house but at the same time be able to have savings.

On the note of savings, Yahya bin Haji Metassim agrees that saving is a good habit. He however shared that he would sacrifice his savings to take care of his parents. He is a type of man who plans his expenses every month to avoid wastage. During the wish campaign, he made a wish of being able to save effectively and to one day own his own house.

First-class degree holder Haji Muhammad Shah Haji Bair’s wish is to fix the roof of the house he is living in that has been causing leaks whenever it rains. He wants to do this for his parents who have continuously blessed with everything he needs. He now feels that it is time for him to be take care of his parents and by fixing the roof, he said it would definitely cheer his parents up.

“My wish is to have a projector that will help me with my teaching,” Wish awardee Awang Azlizam bin Awg Hj Sabli, who is a religious school teacher said. With a projector, he said he will not have to make print outs anymore and would help his classes to be more interactive. “By using a projector, I can easily prepare all the notes using my computer which will be easier, faster and more organized,” he added. Other than for teaching, he said he would be able to use the projector at home, where he and his family can watch movies with it without having to go to the cinema.

Hajah Zuraidah binti Haji Mohammad Salleh has a wish of saving enough money to get a van for her family. She has six children ranging from the age six months to nine years old and she feels that with a van, she will be able to take them to school more comfortably.

Next month, another ten Wish-Makers will get their wishes, worth a total of B$80,000 granted. This excludes one Wish-Maker who will be granted a $100,000 Wish Award for the quarterly Wish award.

Besides that, the most awaited award draws near. In just a few months, BIBD will make one Wish-Maker a millionaire.

With the Wish Campaign, BIBD has an aim to achieve its goal of cultivating a savings culture among the people in Brunei.

Other aims include inviting potential benefactors to fulfil any of the short listed wish-makers who are not sponsored by BIBD through the wish campaign website, thus embracing a wish. These wishes will be posted on BIBD’s website, www.bibdwish.com.

The Wish Campaign is open to all citizens and permanent residents of Brunei who holds a CASA Account with BIBD and customers will receive one wish code for every $500 deposit and maintained.

For customers who already have Wish Savings Account is eligible for the first wish when they have at least $500 at the start of the campaign. Subsequent wish codes are given out based on increment of $500. This is an excellent time for parents to encourage their kids to deposit their raya money in BIBD’s CASA account so that they will be able to receive more wish codes to realise bigger dreams.

The total value of the Wish Campaign’s Awards is B$ 2,020,000. Up to ten Wish-Makers will get their wishes, worth a total of more than B$80,000, granted each month until December, starting May this year.

A wish maker will be granted a $100,000 Wish Award every quarter (July, October and January 2010) and a grand wish award of B$ 1 million, January next year. BIBD’s first Quarter awardee Hj Ismadey bin Hj Hussin was granted $100,000 in July where his wish was to build a house for his family. Currently, his dream of owning his own house is becoming a reality where BIBD is helping him with the foundation.

If wish makers should experience any problems entering their wish code on BIBD’s website, please do not hesitate to contact BIBD Marketing hotline at 2233555.

If you would like more information about this topic, please call Ak Herman at +673 2233555 / 2241935 or e-mail at Marketing dept: marketing.department@bibd.com.bn

Finally went to Charcoal for their well-known skewer buffet when some ex-colleagues threw me a farewell sungkai bash last weekend. As usual, Charcoal did not disappoint

These pics were taken at Cheezbox where my current colleagues and partners threw me a farewell sungkai bash. Cheezbox is very consistent in offering just the right selection of dishes for their sungkai buffet. As my guest blogger puts it, its like being a 5 year old in a candy store

Hosted by:

His Excellency Joseph K H Koh
High Commissioner of the Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam
& Mrs Peifen Koh

Kontemporari Khazanah is proud to present to the Bruneian community unique Islamic Art that has contemporary or modern nuances which represents the work of artist around the world. It is also a privilege for Kontemporary Khazanah to be invited to the event that hopes to raise funds for the Pusat Ehsan.

Available on display will be 6 series of art works namely the Mushaf, Mizan, Elegante, Raoul, Gallic and Mozaique,

Each of these series is unique expressions of the artisans in the media and medium that is applied. Some of the mediums used in this collection are leather, glass, wood, mosaic and gold leaves. The ayats are written in many Arabic fonts that enhance the art pieces individually that helps create life in a living space. None of the pieces has copies in Kontemporari Khazanah’s collection to maintain uniqueness and value of the art piece.

Amongst the series the star collection is the whole Quran being represented on a single surface. Designs of this work are translated onto halal calf leather through micro-fisching technology. There are two versions of the Quran with one having the ayat found on the door of Kaabah around the parameter of the piece. These pieces can either be a personal or corporate collection that can be handed down to the next generations.

Another heavyweight collection is the Raoul that is 20 kg in weight and is about 1.5m x 1.1m. The ayat is found embedded in the rainbow across the piece of tempered glass.

Although only invited guest are allowed into this session, the full Islamic Contemporary Art pieces can still be viewed at either D’Other Office Café & Bistro or The Mall from 15 September 2009. For more information please call Eida at 714 0702.

Mizan Series

Mozaique Series

Elegante Series

After the press conference, fellow media representatives were treated to a sumptuous sungkai meal at D’Other Office. Special Singaporean food were served together with some signature dishes that you can’t find anywhere else.

Generous servings of Singaporean Food: Indian rojak, murtabaks, chicken rice and the very delicious fried ‘tauhu’

The signature dish of ‘Sup Tulang Merah’, improvised with lamb shanks.

Glutinous rice with gula melaka: curiously and affectionately called as J.Lo. Remind me more of Patrick Starfish though…

Kurapak doing his best ‘kawai’ impression with our host, Ms Eida.

Zaraura HM,

Amir Anas,

Joffren Omar, and

Khadija Mahari

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Ambs yoooo!

Big boy waits earnestly for his gulali

Popcorn!

Recycled Teenagers

Mango chicken da bomb

The youngest member of BAG Networks Team

ROTI ROTI!

Why your camera shrank ah??

With Mdm CEO and the Interns (who gave a rousing performance! NOT )

Young Jedi sleeps soundly after an exciting evening

Maslinda Awg Usin

and

Raidah Abang

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Congratulations to Hairol Azmi Majid aka Ucingitam whose name was drawn as the winner of the Vintage Rose Sungkai Nusantara Buffet voucher for two!
Enjoy your meal bro!

Centre directors with Mr & Mrs QQestore

The Acapella group led by NJ – Dooo-wap dooo-waaaa

This chap was dozing off looking after the food

Hellewww

Dagangsta with the RITS crew

Christine has a novel idea for a business which I’ll be investing in

Mr Kurapak trying to get to the 3rd layer of Alid’s clothing

Minum aing gelagah ko wang??

Another Japanese pose!

Adengan tapau menapau

Suryani Saini

and

Dk Nurul Zana Amani

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Wanna win a voucher for two to dine at Vintage Rose’s Sungkai Buffet Nusantara?
Click here to find out more!

A message from Juls-Dean / El-Kapitan 719, Mother-Chapter Brunei:

Aslmkmwbt, im Road Captain for GANGSTARS-719-mother Chapter Brunei, would like to THANX to you & wife aka ANAKBRUNEI.org. very nice of u to support Local Bikers.

Hope to See you guys around again..and again…agian THANK YOU bro.

Best Regards,
Juls-Dean / El-Kapitan
719, Mother-Chapter Brunei

Those who know me know that, having used to own several bikes (including a Kawasaki VN1500) at one time, I am a biker at heart. I love big bikes and I love the feeling of the open air when cruising on a big bike. I haven’t ridden for many, many years, but whenever I come across a bunch of big bikes, without fail, I will feel that itch to ride again… One of these days… one of these days… Anyway, I came across these bikes at The Arch few nights ago and it turns out I know some of the owners. So I decided to take a few shots

My ex-colleague Ab and da boys

Biker couple spotted on the road

And the winners for the Rizqun Coffeehouse Sungkai Vouchers
today, 9th September 2009 are:

Lisa Omarali

and

Fizah Khalid

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Naindah Asian, located at The Mall Gadong caters to the needs of fashionistas of all ages, offers a unique range of oriental women’s accessories, which is timely with the festive season just around the corner.

Opened last year, Naindah Asian specializes in retailing mostly Ipa-Nima designer handbags from Vietnam and Duna from Indonesia. The boutique also brings in Thai silks, fancy Vietnamese clogs, Pakistani/Indian chapals and slippers and lacquerware.

Ipa-Nima is a designer fashion brand available in select stores worldwide. The company was founded by former Hong Kong litigator Christina Yu, after she moved to Vietnam in 1995.

According to Christina, Ipa-Nima is a label which set out to rejuvenate oriental fashion design and should not be described as "East-meets-West". Rather, the fundamental design concept is profoundly inspired from traditional craftsmanship and patterns combined with the modernity and glamour of the 21st century.

The coquettish glamour of Ipa-Nima bags quickly caught the attention of celebrities and stylists. Debra McGuire, stylist for the hit sitcom "Friends" liked to infuse a good dose of Ipa-Nima styles into the cast’s wardrobe.

Celebrity clients include Hillary Clinton and Chelsea Clinton, Shakira Caine, Jamie Lee Curtis, Toni Braxton, Michelle Yeoh, Maggie Cheung and Faye Wong.

Ipa-Nima is regularly featured in fashion magazines such as Vogue, Cosmopolitan, Elle, Marie Claire, and Neo.

Da girls choosing a gift for my mum whose birthday was yesterday.
HAPPY BIRTHDAY MUMMY!

Clothes on offer as well

Very colorful designs

Unusually quiet at the Mall

BARA folks promoting Support Brunei’s Polar Girl

Serira Bakri* 
and

Liza Taib

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Last night the gang and I had sungkai at a newly opened joint called Jade Crystal Kopitiam and Cafe. Its neatly tucked in between blocks of shophouses in the newly completed Madang Complex.

Speaking to the Bulletin, owner Stephanie Lim said, "We chose the name ‘Jade Crystal’ because it symbolises the strength and sincerity of our team, whereby our mission is to provide a cozy ambiance with great food and excellent service to all our customers."

"Open daily from 8am to 12am, Jade Crystal Kopitiam and Cafe also provides VIP rooms for private functions."

The mother of two children added, "The rationale of locating at Madang complex is that we see there is a potential of growth in the area and there are still not many cafes within the area."

Nasi Goreng Belutak… knocked our socks off!

Especially Farah! Hehehe!

Ayam Penyet

Ambuyat Begoreng! Now thats something different!

Zizie Zul and Zaki Marzuki

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Finally managed to drop by the gerai ramadhan at the stadium yesterday. Saw many familiar faces from previous years and some new ones as well!

Kebaaaaaab keebab!

Wah this year up to 9 pcs offer!

DAM Briyani!!! Betul betul pooonya! Tara tipuuuu!

Kueh Malaya. Not quite OGH level of awesomeness though…

Rooooti rooooti!

Lurus ni kah? 100 biji B$5.00??

Radioactive agar agar anyone?

My celebrity newsreader friend wit his missus

CHOP!

PIZZA!

And the winners for today, 6th September 2009 are:

Wadi Adilah Amin

and

Sid Zainal Abidin

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai

at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

And what a BONZA night it was at the KristalFM studio when the Bloggers went head-to-head against the DJ’s in a grudge match of the Hari Raya Aidilfitri game show!

DJ Hani was the MC this time round

Spot the Louboutins

ADeena H Mahadi

and

Saiful Kamaluddin

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai

at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Pics from Sheraton Utama Hotel’s special media invitation for their ‘Jom Berbuka at Sheraton’ Ramadhan Sungkai Buffet at their Tasek Brasserie restaurant.

From Borneo Bulletin:

The buffet featured a vast array of dishes with an assortment of different cuisines to tickle the taste buds.

According to Paula Munoz, Director of Sales at Sheraton Utama Hotel, what makes the hotel’s sungkai buffet stand out are the services of their very attentive staff and’ their renowned Kambing Bakar which has always been a big hit since they introduced it four years ago.

The Kambing Bakar truly was a delectable dish, and was one of the more popular choices at the buffet. The Nasi Briyani was also very good, as well as the Satay and Oxtail Soup.

Also on offer were curry laksa, steamed fish, vegetarian dishes, barbecue chicken and fish, bubur kacang and many more.

Among the many desserts available was the Mud Cake full of flavour, great texture, and the perfect ending to the meal.

The sungkai buffet promotion will be held throughout Ramadhan, from 6pm to 10.30pm, at $24 per person.

People getting their food just before bedok

Which one do u think will run out first?

Mee Kari.. yumm!

Char Kway Teow!

This Chicken Korma was great, but I like mine even better with green peas

Speaking of green peas.. heheheh

The famous Sheraton Lamb

Hi Liyana

Cookiemonster’s Teppanyaki Ice Cream (Kiasu special hahaha)

We were on the way out and this lot were still going strong!

And the winners for today, 4th September 2009 are:

Erdie Hassan

and

Mejot Izzah

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai

at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

Here’s the scenario: Imagine a 5 year old kid walks into a candy shop, and was told he can HAVE EVERYTHING he sees…

Now imagine you, after fasting the whole day, walks into a Sungkai Buffet restaurant, sees over 10 different invigorating appetizers, 30 different hearty main dishes, and 15 different salivating desserts, and was told you can HAVE EVERYTHING you see…

Welcome to Cheezbox’s Sungkai Buffet!

10% of the food on display…

Yet only another 10%…you get the drift. The varieties are so varied and unique, I’ll be hard pressed to include the whole menu in pictures.

…but no harm trying…here’s another 10%…

The very delicious Poached Salmon with Apple Taragon Sauce

The buttery aroma will linger in your mouth…

You will never get thirsty again at Cheezbox

My first round of many, many rounds…

Cheesecakes invasion at Cheezbox! The chocolate desserts would make even Mr Wonka proud…

Quantity doesn’t equal quality, I hear you say. But I assure you, Cheezbox offers immense quantity, and even more superior quality. Dishes on offer are not those you can ‘tapau’ from Tamu. Fettucine Carbonara, Beef Wellington, Baked Mussel, Cranberry Fish Fillet and Poached Salmon in Apple Taragon Sauce are just some of the fine food on display.

Let’s start with the appetizers. I had the Thai Tang Hoon Salad, Chicken Pasta, Coleslaw and Fruit Cocktail Salad. I don’t usually take two serving of appetizers, but couldn’t resist topping up on the Fruit Cocktail Salad.

With that out of the way, I needed a game plan for the main dishes. Do I take the Teriyaki Chicken, Grilled Lamb or Beef Stew first? Couldn’t decide, so I took them all.

Next, Butter Prawn, Shrimp Spring Roll or Prawn Wanton in Red Oil? Why ‘districtized’ the ‘prawns’ I thought, so I took them all.

Japanese Tofu, Sushi or Tempuras? Well, three was never a crowd.

In the end my plate was so full, I was playing Jenga with my food.

The next 20 minutes was one of the heartiest meals I had in a long time. Honestly, the whole experience doesn’t feel like a buffet meal, but those you pay top dollar for at fancy restaurants. To choose a favorite food over the other will be unfair, as I feel the whole menu was prepared with quality in mind, not put together hastily.

Special mention though, I must add, will be the Shrimp Spring Roll and Salmon in Apple Tarragon Sauce. You have to try it to appreciate the full taste.

I am never much a dessert person, but I knew I had to try the cheesecakes, chocolate mousse, puddings, and ‘bubur pulut hitam’. No regret, especially the Apple Crumble Pie.

In a nutshell, I must say Sungkai Buffet at Cheezbox ranks very highly in my personal ‘sungkai escapade’. For $19.90 per pax, you will get your money worth few times over. The only possible disappointment is not getting a seat at the restaurant, as it has been full house for the past few days. I’ll pick up the phone to reserve a seat immediately if I were you, truth be told.

The full house crowd at yesterday’s Sungkai…filled to the brim at 6.15pm!

Ever DJ Izan gave the thumbs up!

And the winners for today, 3rd September 2009 are:

Hadi Bruneimotors

and

Amal Jasmine

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai

at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

From Borneo Bulletin:

Bandar Seri Begawan – The British High Commissioner to Brunei, Mr Rob Fenn and his spouse hosted a sungkai reception at their residence in Jalan Kota Batu yesterday evening to announce the two Bruneians who have been awarded the prestigious Chevening Scholarships for 2009-2010 session.

The recipients for this year’s scholarships are Muhammadd Reeda Hj Malik who is the General Manager of E-Government Business at TelBru, well known among the Bruneian Bloggers as Anak Brunei, and Dyg Didiliana Hj Awg Damit, Education Officer at the Ministry of Education.

Mr Rob Fenn said, "We are very proud to be able to send these Bruneian professionals to further their studies and help them achieve their dreams. They join an elite group from around the world, coming together from different cultures and backgrounds, to achieve one common goal.

"I am confident that Brunei Darussalam will benefit from these local Chevening scholars’ contribution upon their return to Brunei, and with their help, the UK’s relationship with Brunei will continue to prosper and go from strength to strength."

Awang Muhammad Reeda will be taking his MA in New Media and Society at the University of Leicester. He currently holds a degree in Social Sciences from the Curtin University of Technology in Australia.

In an interview with the Bulletin, Muhd Reeda said that he applied for the scholarship just when it was about to close at the end of last year. It was a spur of the moment decision and he decided to give it a shot. He was then called for an interview where he was asked how this scholarship would help him contribute to nation building or contribute to the country.

The course that he will be taking covers Internet, web technologies, social network engineering and so forth, and will enable him to further analyse the trends and the effect that this new Internet technology will have on Bruneian society. "It is something that badly needs to be done because the Internet is becoming more and more pervasive and we need to know what are the trends and be prepared to mitigate any negative effects," he said.

He received a call few weeks later and was informed he was going to be recommended for the scholarship. He said, "I did not expect it and it was a pleasant surprise when I was recommended for this scholarship, quite a nice feeling to do something before I hit 40," he said.

The scholarship, he further added, is quite a prestigious one and there are a number of Bruneian students who have gone through the scholarship and have become members of the alumni.

"Its more of a friendship and networking thing because Chevening alumni will always- look at each other and say look we went through the same programme and we will have unbreakable ties with Britain and I think it’s a good way for countries to develop friendship and people to people connection. It’s a great programme and I hope to see more Bruneians taking part."

Asked what are his plans on his return, he said that he intends to set up an advisory committee on the Internet, to give advice to relevant agencies on what are the trends and how we are going to mitigate the problems that may arise. More here and here.

About to be interviewed by RTB

Some of the Chevening Alumni present yesterday

HE British High Commissioner giving his remarks

‘Faizal Alauddin

and

Dannie Basrah

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai
at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

An urgent note from a friend. Pls help if you can:

Hello friends

I am appealing on behalf of RIPAS for blood platelets donors to come forward.  As of this afternoon (1st Sept @ 3 pm), they have 2 patients urgently in need.  One is a teenage boy suffering from leukaemia whose red blood platelet count is down to 8 (normal range I was told is between 250 to 450) and a man who suffered a traffic accident yesterday but could not be operated on until donors are found.  With 2 donors this afternoon, and a further 2 expected, the doctors hope to be able to perform the operation tonight.

Please pass the word around and in view of the fasting month, the blood bank is also open from 9 to 11 pm nightly – platelets donation is done at the Oncology Dept and takes around 1.5 hours.  If you like to know more or if you or any friends would like to donate, please look for Ken at the Blood Bank who will explain the procedure clearly to you.  Shanty, the oncology nurse will also clear up any doubts and fears you may have.

Today’s post is brought to you by AB’s guest foodie blogger is SL. Great job bro!

The thing that struck me the most about Sungkai Buffet at Saffron was how relaxing and calm the whole experience turned out to be. Having all the food on the menu served to your table definitely beat jostling and queuing up in long lines at other joints.

The buffet menu offers a fusion of Iranian, Indian and Malay Food, balanced perfectly for local taste

Saffron Sungkai Buffet comprises of appetizer, main course and of course desserts. For starter, the soup was refreshingly light and the green salad has the right tinge of dressing. Not a wide variety on that, but why overstuff yourself with appetizer, right?

Main course is served in small portions, but with unlimited refill to fulfill your gastronomic needs

The main course has a bit of everything, serving selections from Malay, Iranian and Indian food. The Zereshk rice, an Iranian specialty, was especially tasty with a hint of raisins. Even the Basmati rice, which can easily passed as normal white rice, offers a different sensation to your taste bud as you can almost savor each grain individually. It’s dry without being coarse and a perfect complement to other main dishes.

Moving on to Fish Tomato, it was very rich in taste and you can really appreciate the freshness of it. With tangy tomato gravy, the fish meat was served in cubes and it was just right for one mouthful together with the Basmati Rice.

The Mixed Vege in White Curry was actually quite bland in taste, but surprisingly it worked very well in tandem with the other dishes. Saffron shows that curry doesn’t have to over-packed with spices, as the light vege helped to accentuate the taste of other dishes, especially the Grilled Chicken Special.

The Grilled Chicken Special deserves a merit mention as the most delicious item on the Menu. Essentially Tandoori Chicken, the chicken was marinated and grilled lightly, keeping a nice layer of reddish texture. It has strong taste, while keeping the juiciness of the chicken intact.

(I can’t take beef, so didn’t get to taste it. Sorry)

The were also a wide variety of desserts on offer, ranging from kuihs to cakes, ice kacang to puddings and the ever-interesting chocolate fondue. I was quite full so I manage skipped the chocolate fondue to demonstrate my little strand of ‘self restraint’. I had the sago pudding instead, and it was a great choice. Not too sweet nor too bland, it has the right blend of sago-and-pudding ratio.

Overall, the Saffron Sungkai Buffet was a nice experience. Owing much to the charming interior deco that sets up relaxed ambience, it gave me the right balance for a calm and fulfilling meal, coupled with nice mix of fusion food on serve.

A spacious ‘chamber’ comfortably seats 4-6 pax

Sweet desserts

A variety of local kuihs and chocolate cake

Kid-magnet: The chocolate Fondue

Even Kurapak and co gave the thumbs-up

Note: $10 per pax, children under 5 years old eat for free

Menu changes every week during month of Ramadhan

RIZQUN COFFEEHOUSE

How would YOU like to break fast at the popular Rizqun Coffee House? Well, I have some free vouchers* I’d like to give away this Ramadhan! Of course, you’ll have to be in Brunei to enjoy this voucher heheh!

Just click on the button on the anakbrunei.org fan box which should be displayed if you haven’t clicked it before, and thats it. If the button is not displayed, it should say “You’re a Fan” instead.

For the next two weeks starting today, I will be picking two random fans every day to win the meal voucher and they will be notified via facebook mail. Their names will also be announced everyday. So what are you waiting for? FAN ME!

* Terms and Conditions Apply

And the winners for today, 1st September 2009 are:

Balqis Hadi

and

Gunta Gunawan

CONGRATULATIONS and enjoy your sungkai
at the Rizqun Coffeehouse!

50% off Pizza and Pasta

Lovely fresh seafood pizza

Pasta Carbonara

Our favorite dish, Linguini Fratini

According to @TheWheat who asked Concepts management if they were going to recycle it and if so which recycling center, he was told they would throw them away (after giving away working monitors) cause recyclers didn’t want to pay for them. Previously he said they did recycle but ROI was too little so decided to make the recyclers pay in order to take the monitor… Looks like I’ll have to direct them to the article below.

From wiseGEEK:

The importance of monitor recycling has become readily apparent, as more and more aging electronics are thrown away and replaced each year. The advent of flat screen televisions and computer monitors may eventually lessen the need for monitor recycling. Older monitors usually consist of a thick glass screen in front of a cathode ray tube (CRT). The glass and the CRT put together can contain up to eight pounds of lead, depending on the size of the monitor. When materials containing lead are disposed of in landfills, the lead can leach out into the soil and groundwater, potentially posing health risks to humans.

Responsible monitor recycling is of great importance, because of the hazardous materials that are thereby prevented from negatively affecting the environment we depend on. While electronic equipment such as a CRT monitor poses no health hazard when used by a consumer, it should not be dumped or incinerated in the same way as organic trash, because of the potentially harmful materials in it. There are many companies which conduct monitor recycling in a responsible way by separating out hazardous materials for reuse or safe disposal.

Beautiful Sunset taken from Tarindak d’Seni

What would the world be like if the men were to stay at home with the kids and the women worked instead?

A man was sick and tired of going to work every day while his wife stayed home. He wanted her to see what he went through so he prayed, "Dear Lord, I go to work every day and put in 8 hours while my wife merely stays at home. I want her to know what I go through, so please create a trade in our bodies."

God, in his infinite wisdom, granted the man’s wish. The next morning, sure enough, the man awoke as a woman. He arose, cooked breakfast for his mate, awakened the kids, set out their school clothes, fed them breakfast, packed their lunches, drove them to school, came home and picked up the dry cleaning, took it to the cleaners and stopped at the bank to draw out money to pay the power bill and telephone bill, drove to the power company and the phone company and paid the bills, went grocery shopping, came home and put away the groceries. He cleaned the cat’s litter box and bathed the dog.

Then it was already 1 p.m. and he hurried to make the beds, do the laundry, vacuum, dust, and sweep and mop the kitchen floor. Ran to the school to pick up the kids and got into an argument with them on the way home. Set out cookies and milk and got the kids organized to do their homework, then set up the ironing board and watched TV while he did the ironing.

At 4:30 he began peeling potatoes and washing greens for salad, breaded the chops and snapped fresh beans for supper. After supper he cleaned the kitchen, ran the dishwasher, folded laundry, bathed the kids, and put them to bed. At 9 p.m. he was exhausted and, though his daily chores weren’t finished, he went to bed where he was expected to make love — which he managed to get through without complaint.

The next morning he awoke and immediately knelt by the bed and said, "Lord, I don’t know what I was thinking. I was so wrong to envy my wife’s being able to stay home all day. Please, oh please, let us trade back."

The Lord, in his infinite wisdom, replied, "My son, I feel you have learned your lesson and I will be happy to change things back to the way they were. You’ll have to wait 9 months, though. You got pregnant last night.

The power of web 2.0

LagunaDua is a place which I have been hearing a lot of good things about, especially from my buddy, the deputy envoy. Couple of nights ago, I finally managed to pay them a visit. The place is located next to the now closed Sri Patek Brasserie, near the X-Ray place near the airport.

I was in a bit of a rush, but from the quick tasting I had, the deputy envoy was right about the food! Fresh home style cooked food which included some unique offerings like the siput sedut, and on the menu was also crayfish or satak!

I enjoyed the meal and will definitely be returning to sample the other dishes. Check it out! The sungkai buffet is priced at B$13.40 for adults and B$7.20 for kids below 11. Call 2336219 or 8988321 for reservations.

Siput Sedut! Haven’t had these for aaaaages! *Thumbs up*

Menu for tonight 29th August

SOUP

Sweetcorn with crab meat

APPETIZERS

Kerabu; Daging, Mangga, Prawn salad

MAIN COURSE

Fried Mee hoon, Lamb Stew w/mashed potato, Steam Rice
Chicken “saus mentega” , LagunaDua Mango Fish
Udang Galah Kunyit, Ginger Beef, Squid “Masak Singapore”
Kailan with oyster sauce, Beansprout with salted fish, Sayur batang pisang

STALL – 1

Grills – Chicken Peri-Peri

STALL – 2

Ambuyat, Tahai/Ikan Rebus, Urat Kunyit & sambal mangga, Tempoyak/Binjai

STALL – 3

Roti Jala, Cucur Pisang/Ubi

DESSERTS

Red Ruby, Assorted malay cakes, Pastries, kurma Fruits, Longan, Lychee,
Rambutan, Nangka & Cocktails, Watermelon/Starfruit/Papaya

DRINKS

Manisan & Bandung

Mee Tomato

The best grilled fish on the planet

Bubur Cha Cha

From The Brunei Times:

STUDENTS who wish to pursue higher education in the United Kingdom were advised to make full use of the British Council’s Education Exhibitions, as there is no substitute for obtaining information face-to-face from relevant institution representatives.

During the Education UK 2009 Exhibition yesterday, British Council (Malaysia)’s Director of Education and Programmes Peter Clack said personal contact is very important for the potential student and their parents to determine the most suitable institution that will meet their requirements.

"Students are utilising the Internet nowadays for sourcing information. But they can only get so much from the Internet. It is important for them to come here, pin someone down in a booth, and ask what their courses would be like," he said.

Clack said that although the global economy is in a decline, people are still spending on education. "Parents are willing to spend on their children to obtain quality education. Education seems to be doing quite well, even in times of economic change," he said.

The Sungkai Buffet at OGH has made quite a name for itself over the past few years and deservedly so. The excellent menu which changes weekly, combined with a reasonable price of only provides good value for money.

Plus of course, there’s the LEGENDARY Kuih Melaya which I keep raving about! Heheh!

Definitely a place to go to at least once during this holy month. Reservations encouraged on 2335544 cos as with previous years, this place will get JAM PACKED!

This young lady makes the best Kueh Melaya on the planet

AB’s special blend. Extra crispy with extra nuts and raisins!

Good spread

Ambuyat pon ada

Lovely claypot rice

The Lok-Lok Station is popular

The “spare part” station

This soup will knock your socks off!

Nasi Kambeeeeeeeekkk!

Ayam masak tomato

This oriental fish n chips RAWKS!

Laksa Sarawak anyone?

Dessert station. The choc coated bananas were noice!

Thank you to all the buyers! All transactions super smooth! Two thumbs up!

The Empire Hotel and Country Club will be launching a new menu at Li Gong restaurant in October. In light with this, from 25 August to 4 October 2009, Li Gong will be featuring weekly specials offering many wonderful Chinese cuisines; Hong Kong, Szechuan, Singapore fusion, Thai Style Chinese Food, Empire Li Gong Specialties, Singaporean fusion and Peking Style.

Guests will be delighted with Li Gong’s newly improved and delicious authentic selections during this promotion. This week’s specials include delicious sautéed prawns crystal style, stewed ma po tofu with minced chicken in clay pot, stir-fried rice noodles ‘Hor Fun’ with bean sprouts, juicy pan-fried rack of Lamb in black pepper sauce, pan-fried beef tenderloin in Chinese style, sautéed shark’s fin with scramble Egg and Crab Meat and other varieties of style. Dishes will be served in portions.

Li Gong is a Cantonese and Chinese cuisine restaurant, free standing pavilion set by a landscaped waterfall. This weekly special will be catered from 6:30pm to 10:30pm daily, except every Monday.

For reservations or further enquiries please call 241 1188

The Hong Kong Style Menu for this week

Double Boiled Chicken Soup with Superior Shark’s Fin

Seafood fried rice in Lotus Leaf

Sautéed Scallops with Broccoli

Deep-fried Cod Fish Fillet with Ginger and Soya Sauce

Poached Seasonal Hong Kong Vegetable with Oyster Sauce

Sauteed Prawns Crystal Style

Braised Egg Noodles with King Prawns and Ginger Onion Sauce

Superior snowskin mooncakes with custard, and redbean & plum fillings

I loved this refreshing dessert of Chrysanthemum Jelly

I missed the Sounds of Hope visit to families in poverty yesterday as I was in Miri. Hoping to catch the next one before I leave next month

From Marul’s FB:

It’s not easy to see when our fellow Bruneians are living in such poverty. During the visit, individuals donated food items, clothing and other daily necessities.

I noticed that most of their living conditions are just not clean, full of trash that could’ve been cleaned up. I guess to them it’s not a bother but I believe if they make an effort to clean it up, I’m sure they will be living a bit comfy.

Today’s visit was mostly to find out the story behind their condition and what kind of help they need.

If you wish to help, please go to the Sounds Of Hope facebook page or email soundsofhope.brunei@gmail.com

Pictures by Hyperclicks.net

House no.1 in Tanjung Nangka. if i’m not mistaken she was left by the husband for a new wife. she has about 14 kids and she makes only $500 or less.

where the kids play and watch tv

the volunteers talking with the lady of the house..

the kitchen..

no windows, just hole on the wall

i was kinda speechless looking at the state of their home..

i’m not so sure, but this might be their toilet

Been quite lax in posting for the last couple of days (maklumlah, cutiii heheh!). Am posting from my hotel room at the Miri Marriott. Just some random pics from the HTC G1 which I’ve taken over the past couple of months. Have an awesome Sunday everyone and Selamat Berpuasa!

The first pic taken with the G1

JC’ing pic

Asia’s Finest Baklava! I think this was the day I took delivery of Apollonia

At the e-Government Roadshow

What I’m reading

At the Bean @ Singapore Expo

Bikers at Taurean Arch??

Another JC pic

During the Worldwide Photo Walk in KB

Waiting for the girls to get measured up for their raya outfits

Tetsuya’s Truffle Salt

Another JC pic??

Daily Traffic Routine

BRIDEX RAWKS!

Final JC before Ramadhan

Whaddya reckon about the emergency drill yesterday?
Click below to join in the discussion.

Pics taken yesterday at the airport where 24/7 Assist signed an agreement with Royal Brunei Airlines (RBA) to become a partner with their frequent flier programme, Royal Skies.

“Today’s signing ceremony is another milestone for 24/7 Assist” said Mr Ken Han, Managing Director of 24/7 Assist. “I believe in going beyond my customer’s expectations and our customers will benefit from this partnership. As they spend, they will earn Royal Skies miles – their dollar goes further than just the services they receive.”

Present at the signing ceremony are Senior Executives of Royal Brunei Airlines and directors, key team members and strategic partners of 24/7 Assist. At this signing, representing RBA is Captain Sheikh Rashid Sheikh Hj Abd Salam, Senior Vice President of Commercial – Yield and Planning, and representing 24/7 Assist is Pg Dato Paduka Hj Idris Ibni Almarhum Pg Temangong Pg Hj Mohammad, director of the company.

The ceremony began with a Doa Selamat to bless this new partnership followed by a speech from Mr Ken Han, Managing Director of 24/7 Assist. “No dreamer is ever too small; no dream is ever too big.”

This is 24/7 Assist 5th year in operation. On 1 April 2005, the company started with merely 2000 customers now after in the business for over 4 years, the company has grew it customer based to 60,000.

Mr Ken Han also expressed that the business started as a dream he had envisioned, emerged to become a reality. “This reality that came through was the establishment of PMK Support Services Sdn Bhd with our main product 24/7 Roadside Assist. I started this company because I strongly believed in helping people. I wanted and chose to be in this business because I knew in our day to day busy lives, wouldn’t it be better if someone could provide us a service to make our lives easier? Now 4 years later, we are just a phone-call away.”

Pic from da gangsta’s site

If you’re craving for some middle eastern cuisine, why not check out the Rizqun Shaschlic promotion which is in its final days. Shaschlic or popularly known as Shashlik, which is skewered meat on grills; satay, roast chicken, shawarma (kebab) and more!

I wanted to thank all my friends and family who have forwarded chain letters to me in 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 and 2008 and continuing it in 2009 also……. Because of your kindness:

• I stopped drinking Coca Cola after I found out that it’s good for removing toilet stains.
• I stopped going to the movies for fear of sitting on a needle infected with AIDS.
• Forwarded hundreds of mails but still waiting for FREE DESKTOP, LAPTOP, CAMERA, CELLPHONE etc.
• I smell like a wet dog since I stopped using deodorants because they cause cancer…
• I don’t leave my car in the parking lot or any other place and sometimes I even have to walk about 7 blocks for fear that someone will drug me with a perfume sample and try to rob me.
• I also stopped answering the phone for fear that they may ask me to dial a stupid number and then I get a phone bill with calls to Uganda, Pakistan, Singapore and Tokyo.
• I also stopped drinking anything out of a Can for fear that I will get sick from the rat faeces and urine.
• When I go to parties, I don’t look at any girl, no matter how hot she is, for fear that she will take me to a hotel, drug me, then take my kidneys and leave me taking a nap in a bathtub full of ice.
• I also donated all my savings to the Amy Bruce account. A sick girl that was about to die in the hospital about 7,000 times.. (Poor girl! she’s been 7 since 1993…)
• Still open to help somebody from Nigeria who wants to use my account to transfer his uncle’s property of $ 100 million. So much trustworthy.
• I have forwarded 35 emails to 400 people hoping that Ericsson or Nokia will send me latest mobile phones but those models are also obsolete now.
• Made some Hundred wishes before forwarding those emails with friendship ppts, mazhabi, quotes etc. Now most of those ‘Wishes’ are already married (to someone else)

NOW IMPORTANT NOTE:

If you do not send this e-mail to at least 111,500 people in the next 10 seconds, a bird will Pee on your head today at 6:30pm. or meteorite will strike you on the most sensitive part of your body…. but the best thing is you will win a lottery if you spend $1,000,000 to buy the tickets…

Nothing has happened till now…. but who knows. So please forward…

The Singapore High Commission Monday night held a reception marking the republic’s 44th National Day. His Majesty’s Government was represented by the Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Utama Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Yahya. 

Singapore’s High Commissioner, His Excellency Joseph K H Koh, in his address, said that his country has attached a special importance to the relationship by making a conscious effort to look beyond the horizon. 

His Excellency also expressed pleasure that Minister Mentor Lee Kuan Yew has donated the honorarium given to him for delivering a lecture, to fund a Singapore Scholarship named after the Seri Begawan, a resounding reminder to the younger generation of Singapore’s close relation with Brunei.  The reception took place at the Empire Hotel in Jerudong.  

Source: Radio Television Brunei website, August 11, 2009

Totally lovin this new track from NKOTB! Have an AWESOME weekend!

Picked up my set of Hoya Close-up filters last weekend and tested them at JC

Membari hijap?

I found +4 to be most useful for food pornography

The Brunei Eye!

These babies can be stacked up to make a cheap macro lens heheh

Plus 1

Plus 2

Plus 4

Dim Sum

Waktu dibawakan oleh Casio Baby-G

Welcome to BRID EX 2009 says Mr Kurapak!

Mark 25th August in your calendar cos its the Education UK 2009 Exhibition

BRIDEX 2009 – Be there or be square!

PARTICIPANTS at the BRIDEX 2009 Conference yesterday were given an opportunity to scrutinise and examine the full spectrum of emerging threats and how to manage and handle so-called non-traditional threats from a global perspective.

This was presented to them via a series of keynote addresses and panel discussions which focused on four key themes of relevance to defence forces and national security agencies in Southeast Asia’s fast-changing defence and security environment.

The four key themes are Emerging and Future Security Threats in Southeast Asia; C4ISR and the Evolution of Network Centric Capabilities; Homeland Security and Border Protection; and Application of C4I to Peacekeeping, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Operations.

Deemed as the premier defence and security event in Southeast Asia, BRIDEX 2009, which officially begins today, commenced with a one-day International Conference yesterday.

More here.

Catch Sheikh Muzaffar at the show!

… and Sheikh Hedra too! Hee hee!

Dear All,

Reminder, 2nd THiNK BiG Business Competition Executive Summary Submission will be on Friday, 14 Aug 2009 @ 23:59. If interested, you will only require to submit a maximum 3 page executive summary to bizplan@icentre.biz . Below are the links that you can access to  find out more about the competition or they can also just navigate thru iCentre’s website at www.icentre.biz. You can register online at http://www.icentre.biz/bizplanregister.htm

More info on the business plan competition:

Overview: http://www.icentre.biz/bizplanintro.htm
Roadmap overview: http://www.icentre.biz/roadmap.htm
Terms and Conditions and Submission info: http://www.icentre.biz/downloadbizkit.htm

For more information, please do not hesitate to contact
Mr Rayner Tan at 711 3883.

Happy National Day to all Singaporean friends and readers!

Excerpt from an interview with the Singapore HC by PilihanFM:

What are your thoughts on Singapore’s National Day?

Our history over the past 44 years is a story of a country that has evolved from a loose mixture of different communities into one people, one nation and one Singapore.

Our social fabric is knitted with many threads but we all belong to a single tapestry. Regardless of race, language or religion, we are proud that, after 44 years, we are collectively standing tall as Singaporeans.

How about your economic achievements?

We have made some modest progress. In 44 years, we have transformed ourselves from a third world country with people living in slums and squalor into the ranks of first world countries. If measured by per capita GDP in PPP terms, we are the 4th wealthiest nation in the world.

But this is just statistics. Our goal is not mindless economic growth, but to give a better life to our people. We aspire to build a gracious and vibrant metropolis with a high quality of life, amidst lush greenery, a “city in a garden”, and a home that Singaporeans can proudly call our own.

What are the key challenges facing Singapore?

The most serious danger is that we may be seduced by our own success. Singaporeans must guard against complacency. We must not take things for granted.

How would you characterise Singapore’s relations with Brunei Darussalam?

I would describe our relationship in three words: close, warm and special.

The close relationship is underpinned by strong personal and institutional links. Our ministers and officials meet one and another frequently. The agencies work closely together, bilaterally, and regionally with other ASEAN partners.

Pics taken yesterday morning while visiting the Pasar Borong or Wholesale Market which is located in Kg Selayun, Sengkurong. That was the first time I’d visited the market since it was relocated from its original location nearby years ago. Good fresh produce available at wholesale prices. Hmmm, maybe I should organize a fresh produce group buy like we do with phorographic gear at the Bruneiforever Forum… heheh!

Baby Peria or Bitter Gourd. Cute little buggers.

Somebody tell me what sort of tomatoes these are?

The chap on foreground control macho and looked elsewhere but I waited… and waited… till he peeked at me, and CLICK! Decisive moment

These chillies were HUGE! I wonder if they’re hot though?

Sweet corn being stripped and packed

Young ginger

Bean sprout or Taugeh

Stern warning…

See you at Pusat Ehsan tomorrow folks!

Special message from DOO:

In conjunction with Singapore National Day 2009 – D’Other Office Cafe & Bistro would like to invite fellow Singaporean, customers, Bruneian friends and food lovers to come and visit us from Saturday 8th. August and Sunday 9th. August 2009 for our ALL YOU CAN EAT SINGAPORE CUISINES that will be launched by Singapore High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam at 4 pm on Saturday afternoon (08/08/09).

B$14.80 per person for our wide varieties of Singapore Culinaire inclusive of our Signature Dish like Mee Rebus, Mee Siam, Rojak India, Sup Tulang Merah, Murtabak Singapura, Kueh Lopez J-Lo and selections of authentic Singapore Desserts like getuk-getuk ubi, Bubur Sum-Sum and others. JOM! – Join us and for RSVP Please Call Yacob Hussain at: 8674961

Yacob talking about DOO’s history

Tahu Goreng with delectable peanut sauce

Sop Ayam

House specialty Nasi Ambeng which is a meal for two

Singapore National Day Promo

Kueh J-Lo Lopez heheeh!

Reminds me of bakchang, but this is wrapped in banana leaf

Gourmet Hibiscus Tea to wash it all down

Tea pornography?

FREE BOOKS. This is the last time I am stating this. I am giving away 50 copies of my new book The Golden Warisan Volume 2 (so far I have given away 4 books) to history students. All I ask is that you send me an email stating your name, your form, your school and your school history teacher and if okay I will email you back for you to come and collect your book. I won’t be doing any more reminders on this blog, so there. Earlier I placed a limit of one book each and no more than two students per school, but I am willing to accept more than two students per school seeing that there don’t seem to be much interest. Last Offer.

The book is also available, not for free, at Best Eastern, Bismi and Book Lane bookshops throughout the country for $15 each. For that you get 52 articles in 334 pages and tons of black and white photographs of old historical Brunei and scenes that you will never ever see anymore in Brunei.