Abdul Rashid's Blog

First, the Nikon D3 adverts do attract my attention. Nikon D3 is a superb camera that allow you to take picture at ISO 6400 with significantly low noise. Most of the time I take photo without using a flash as it looks more natural and nice.I do admit Nikon D3 specs do fulfill my criteria of tools of trade (and hobby).I think Nikon D3 is superior than the Canon EOS 1D Mark III. However, I hope Canon will do something with their EOS 1D series, as I am a Canon fan.

Secondly, I believe that a photojournalist (PJ) does not only take photos of local/national events and breaking news but also bring the attention to the public and policy-maker of certain issue(s) (and of course, this is done within the context of our country). This is what I can understand from the article by Donald R. Winslow in the News Photographer magazine, February 2008 issue ("Poverty and Homelessness: Will the Poor always be with Us?", page 34-49).

The article by Donald R.Winslow gives some example what PJs from various newspaper in the USA have done. They have documented the life of the poor and homeless in the USA. According to the article, USA will face the recession and more people is going homeless and poor in 2008. However, does it make any different if a PJ documents the life of the poor and homeless? Do the policymaker will do something about it? That what happens in the USA. How about in Brunei? Does the poors' life is better or worst that those in the USA and other country? Whatever the degree, a poor is a poor and there is something to be done to help them. Somebody or organizations need to do something to find out what is the status of poverty in Brunei and then do something about it.

Lastly, for more details about NPPA and News Photographer magazine, do visit their website at http://www.nppa.org/.

Today, I get the 12th issue of Monocle magazine, which I have subscribed at Best Eastern The Mall Gadong. The magazine costs me BND19.90 ( a quite expensive according to my budget). I have subscribed Monocle since its 1st issue.

The interesting point about the Monocle magazine is that it is "a briefing on global affairs, business, culture and design" (the magazine tagline). It has very nice photos to look at (as I do like photojournalistic type of photography).

The most intresting topics (to me) in this issue of Monocle are a report on Kosovo and a report on the role of state broadcasting in transmitting a country's 'brand'. There is a monthly insert magazine of a Japanese anime, Kitakoga. The insert ilself has an advertorial anime of a Japanese brand, Toto, a popular brand of toilet items. A very nice advertisement.

You can visit Monocle website at http://www.monocle.com/ for extras and the magazine's back issues. Something new that is available at the website is that you can subscribe or download free Monocle video podcast. Do check Monocle website for more details.

Next issue (13th issue) will be available on sale from April 17th, 2008.

Rasa Mas open their first branch in Brunei at Giant Hypermarket Tasik Rimba Complex. Today is their first day of operation, that is, in conjunction with the official opening of Giant Hypermarket.

My first time eating at Rasa Mas was at their Alamanda Putrajaya branch a few years ago. I did write in their 'suggestion box' to come to Brunei.

In conjunction with the official opening of Giant Hypermarket Tasik Lama, Lau Motors Sendirian Berhad is showing the new Subaru WRX STi on 22 March 2008, Saturday (today).

p/s: I wish I can own one. However, it is unlikely that I am going to utilise the full 'power' of the car. As the matter of my taste, I like the new Subaru due to its sporty design and handling. Not for speeding.