Abdul Rashid's Blog

Influenza A H1N1 Vaccines for Brunei Darussalam

2009-11-04T22:32:00.005+08:00

4th November 2009, Wednesday – According to press reports (The Brunei Times, 4th November 2009: Brunei gets first shipment of H1N1 vaccines; Borneo Bulletin/Brudirect, 4th November 2009: First Batch of Flu Vaccine Arrive), 1500 doses of H1N1 vaccines arrived on 2nd November 2009, Monday.

Another 4,500 doses should be received by today (4th November 2009, Wednesday) making the total that are available in Brunei Darussalam to 6000 doses. 476,000 doses will arrive in stages from this December until January 2010.

The vaccinations will be carry out VOLUNTARILY i.e for those who want to get vaccinated.

Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman, Minister of Health, says:

900 from the 6000 doses is allocated for Haj pilgrims. Ministry of Health will send doctors to give the vaccines to Hal pilgrims at Mekah and Medinah.
The remaining 5100 doses (out of the 6000 doses) will be given to frontline workers.
The vaccines would be given FREE to all residents in Brunei Darussalam, including the foreigners. But, travellers passing through Brunei are not eligible for the vaccines.
Ministry of Health encourages people to obtain the vaccination.
Public will be vaccinated AFTER the Ministry of Health’s frontline workers and chronic patients get vaccinated.

Dr Hajah Rahmah binti Haji Mohammad Said, Director-General of Health Services, says:

One can be vaccinated if only he/she is fever free and in good health.
Before receiving the vaccination, one have to give their CONSENT and undergo COUNSELLING SESSIONS.
Children aged 6 months to 10 years needed to be vaccinated twice i.e 4 weeks apart.
Children aged 10 years above and adults only need one dose.

p/s: I hope I understand the press reports correctly....And, according to The Brunei Times (4th November 2009), Brunei has 1,170 confirmed H1N1 cases. The latest cases are recorded on 26th October 2009.

Further reading:

Selamat Hari Guru 2009

2009-11-03T20:05:00.007+08:00

3rd November 2009, Tuesday--Brunei Darussalam celebrates Teachers' Day on 23rd September every year. This year the 23rd September falls on 3rd Syawal 1430 Hijrah when pupils and teachers were still on 3rd term school & Ramadan and Syawal special holiday as well as in Aidilfitri celebration mode. Therefore, the celebration ceremony is postponed until 5 November 2009M/17 Zulkaedah 1430H, Thursday.

The ceremony will be held at International Convention Center, Berakas. The theme for this year celebration is "Guru Berkualiti Teras Kecemerlangan Pendidikan" (“Quality Teachers Are The Heart Of Excellent Education”)

Background of Brunei Darussalam’s Teachers’ Day
Teachers’ Day in Brunei Darussalam is held every 23 September since 1991. The 23rd September is also the birthday of Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien. This date is chosen as Brunei Darussalam’s Teachers’ Day to recognise and to remember Al-Marhum’s contribution in education, including the Islamic religious education.

SRTLDB: Teachers' Day Celebration Ceremony 2009

2009-10-31T21:38:00.011+08:00

31st October 2009, Saturday --Teachers from Sekolah Rendah Tentera Laut Diraja Brunei (SRTLDB), Muara held the Teachers' Day celebration ceremony at Paradise Mangrove Resort, Sungai Belukut on 29th October 2009, Thursday.

Brunei Darussalam celebrates Teachers' Day on 23rd September every year. This year the 23rd September falls on 3rd Syawal 1430 Hijrah when pupils and teachers were still on 3rd term school & Ramadan and Syawal special holiday as well as in Aidilfitri celebration mode. Therefore, the celebration ceremony is postponed until 5 November 2009, Thursday. The ceremony will be held at International Convention Center, Berakas. The theme for this year celebration is "Guru Berkualiti Teras Kecemerlangan Pendidikan"

We, at SRTLDB, celebrated our own day one week earlier due to most us will attend some briefing, workshop, course, etc. in the whole November 2009.

A journey from my school...

First, I took a photo of my latest model car collection in my Suzuki Swift.

Mangrove Paradise Resort

The entrance

The bridge

A view from our event location...Kampung Sungai Bunga.

Kampung Sungai Bunga...one of the resettlement housing scheme on water.

Another view of Kampung Sungai Bunga.

One of the activity on the river...

The blind...

A green boat is passing by....

A boat carrying the gravel from Temburong....

The Ceremony

Our Guru Besar is delivering her speech..."...be a quality teacher," she reminded the teachers.

The packaging of the gift that we received from our Guru Besar.

The gift is unveiled...Kingston 2Gb Data Traveller USB Pendrive.

In addition, we do celebrates the birthday anniversary who are born in October. One of them is me.

This is a special Teachers' Day cake for our Guru Besar and Penolong Guru Besar.

The Menu

Spoon & Fork

Napkin

Chicken soup

Black pepper beef

Roasted chicken with nasi ayam style sauce

Fish head

(Photos: Abdul Rashid bin Haji Tahir. Taken on 29th October 2009, Thursday)

Related Links:

Ahad's Burger at University of Brunei Darussalam Convocation Festival 2009

2009-10-28T22:41:00.004+08:00

28th October 2009, Wednesday - This afternoon, I went to a bazaar that is held at University Brunei Darussalam (UBD) in conjunction with its Convocation Festival 2009 ("Pesta Konvo"). My "mission" is to get a taste of Ahad's Burger. Ahad's Burger has been introduced to me through a photography forum i.e forum.bruneiforever.com by its members.

I bought 2 variaties of the burgers: beef with cheese and egg & chicken. The beef burger with cheese and egg costs BND2.50 each. The chicken burger costs BND1.50 each.

My first intention to go UBD this afternoon was to attend a public seminar that was held at the Senate Room, Chancellor Hall (in addition to have a taste of Ahad's Burger, of course). So, I ate my burgers at my car. I ate them with a can of Pepsi-Cola. Coca-Coca or Pepsi-Cola and burger do come together in terms of taste.

However, due to certain reasons, I have to cancel my intention to come to the seminar. At least, I get my burgers.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid bin Haji Tahir. Taken on 28th October 2009, Wednesday)

Related Links:

Attending A Briefing On Orientation Workshop for Year 2 Science Teachers (2010 Session)

2009-10-27T21:19:00.008+08:00

27th October 2009, Tuesday -- I was attending a briefing on the Orientation Workshop for the Year 2 Science Teacher (2010 session) that was held at the Main Hall of New Ministry of Education Building on 17th October 2009, Saturday. The briefing and then the workshop was organised by Science and Agriculture Unit, Curriculum Development Department, Ministry of Education.

The Orientation Workshop was then held at Sekolah Rendah Katok A on 21st October to 22nd October 2009 for Group A, and on 24th October & 26th October 2009 for Group B.

I can understand that Sistem Pendidikan Negara Abad 21 (SPN21) emphasises new syllabus for the Science subject and "discovery-enquiry" method of learning Science subject.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid bin Haji Tahir. Taken on 17th October 2009, Saturday)

Related Link

Blog: Science and Agriculture Unit, Curriculum Development Department, Ministry of Education, Brunei Darussalam

VW Golf GTi Wallpaper from NetCarShow.com

2009-10-26T16:53:00.002+08:00

Some Videos of Canon EOS 1D Mark IV DSLR at Youtube

2009-10-26T00:52:00.001+08:00

Canon EOS 7D DSLR

2009-10-23T11:08:00.014+08:00

23rd October 2009, Friday--Canon unveils Canon EOS 7D DSLR on 1st Sepetember 2009.

Price

According to Canon Singapore website, the price of this latest DSLR (in Singapore) will be according to their package:

• Canon EOS 7D body only: SGD2,699.

• Canon EOS 7D Kit I ( body plus EF-S 15-85 IS lens): SG3,849.
• Canon EOS 7D Kit II ( body plus EF-S 18-135 IS lens): SGD3249

Let us wait for its official pricing and market availability in Brunei Darussalam.

Some Specifications:
• 18 APS-C CMOS Sensor
• 3:2 aspect ratio
• 14 bit A/D conversion
• 8 fps image capture
• Dual “Digic 4” processors.
• ISO range: 100-6400. Expandable to 12,800.
• EOS Movie captures Full HD movie, with *.mov recording format.
• Magnesium alloy body.
• Clear View II 3in 920K dots VGA LCD monitor with a viewing angle of 160%.
• EOS integrated cleaning system with flourine coating
• 19 cross-type AF points.
• Storage: CompactFlash
• Metering mode: Evaluative(linked to all AF points), Partial (9.4% at center), Spot(approximately 2.3% at center), and center-weight average.
• Metering: TTL full aperture metering with 63 zone Dual Layer SPC
• Viewfinder: 100% frame coverage, eye-level pentaprism
• LCD Live View: Live TTL display of the scene from CMOS image sensor with 100% coverage
• High shutter durability of approximately 150,000 cycles

Press release photos:

(Photos: Courtesy of Canon USA. The photos are the press release photos that are available at their PRESS ROOM)

Facebook

And feel free to become a Canon EOS 7D DSLR fan at its FACEBOOK fan page.

Related Links:

p/s: This is my wishlist...I really like this camera. And I am waiting for Canon to unveil their latest and improved edition of one of their lenses i.e EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Mark II lens.

Suzuki Swift Sport Is Officially Launched In Brunei Darussalam

2009-10-16T19:15:00.008+08:00

16th October 2009, Friday -- Suzuki Swift Sport is officially in Brunei Darussalam by Boustead in a ceremony that was held on 11th October 2009, Sunday at their Suzuki showroom.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 11th October 2009, Sunday)

Related Links

HTC Unveils HTC HD2 on 6th October 2009, Tuesday

2009-10-07T18:48:00.016+08:00

7^th October 2009, Wednesday – HTC unveils the latest Windows Mobile 6.5 based HTC HD2 yesterday. It is the first Windows phone with HTC Sense, after their Android based device, such as HTC Hero. HTC describes HTC Sense as “a customer experience focused on putting people at the centre by making their phones work in a more simple, natural and personal way.”

Some interesting features:

· 4.3inch capacitive touch display. Capacitive touch display make viewing, zooming and resizing websites, MS Office files, PDF documents, and pictures easier with a pinch of your figures. The 4.3inch large display enables faster, and more efficient and accurate typing using the on-screen keyboard.

· 1Ghz Snapdragon processor by Qualcomm improves the speed of applications, videos, games, and more.

Specifications:

· Weight: 157 grams

· CPU Processing Speed: 1Ghz Snapdragon

· Display: 4.3 inches capacitive touchscreen with 480 X 800 WVGA resolution

· Camera: 5 MP, with autofocus and dual LED flashlight

· Connectors: 3.5mm stereo audio jack and standard Micro-USB

· Power & Battery: Using 1230 mAh rechargeable Lithium-ion battery. Talk time: Up to 320mins (WCDMA). Standby time: Up to 390 hours (WCDMA). Video playback: Up to 8 hours. Audio playback: Up to 12 hours.

· Sensors: G-Sensor, proximity sensor, and ambient light sensor

· Operating System: Windows Mobile 6.5 Professional with HTC Sense.

· Storage: ROM:512MB. RAM: 448MB. Expansion slot: microSD card.

· Network (Asia Pacific): HSPA/WCDMA & GSM

· Other connections (wireless): 3.5G (up to 7.2 Mbps download speed & up to 2Mbps upload speed), Bluetooth 2.1 with EDR, Wi-Fi IEEE 802.11 b/g

· GPS: Internal GPS antenna plus digital compasss with HTC Footprints.

· Home screen: Home, People, Messages, Mail, Internet, Calendar, Stocks, Photos & Videos, Music, Weather, Footprints, Twitter, Settings

· Social Networking: Facebook integration, Sharing photos on Facebook and Twitter, Sharing Vides on YouTube, and HTC Peep for twittering.

· Multimedia: Window Media player, Albums, Pictures and Videos, and FM Radio.

Availability

According to the press release, the HTC HD2 will be available later on this October 2009 with selected operators across Europe. Then, it will be on sale at other regions in the coming months.

Price

I expect the price will be around BND$1200 ( a little more than the current price of HTC HD) when it arrive in Brunei Darussalam (I really hope it will available in Brunei Darussalam).

Photos:

(Photos: Press release photos. Courtesy by HTC. The photos are available at their Press Room)

More photos are available at Engadget: HTC HD2 Hands-On Photo Gallery.

Video

The following videos are available at Edgadget: "HTC HD2 hands-on and impressions...on video!"

(Video: Courtesy of EnGadget)

FaceBook

And..feel free to become a fan of HTC HD2 at their Facebook fan page.

p/s: This is my wishlist....

Related Links:

Cnet Asia: HTC HD Overview

Attending A Public Seminar on Islamic Finance Held by BIBD

2009-10-02T20:49:00.006+08:00

1^st October 2009, Thursday – On 27^th September 2009, Sunday, I attended a public seminar on Islamic finance that was held by Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD), at Indera Kayangan ballroom of The Empire Hotel and Country Club, Jerudong.

The seminar was held from 8.30am until 4.30pm.

The Seminar banner

The first topic is “The Islamic Vision of Development in the Light of Maqasid al-Shari’ah” and it is presented by Dr M. Umer Chapra.

Dr. M. Umer Chapra…

Dr. M. Umer Chapra is presently serving as Research Advisor at the Islamic Reserch and Training Institute (IRTI) of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB). For more info about him, please visit his website: http://www.muchapra.com/

The second topic is “Issues in Islamic Banking and Finance – The Way Forward” and it is presented by Professor Khurshid Ahmad

Professor Khurshid Ahmad…

Professor Khursid Ahmad is the Chairman of Institute of Policy Studies, Pakistan, and the Chairman of Markfield Institute of Higher Education, UK.

Professor Khurshid Ahmad is answering some questions from the participants in the Q & A session.

Dr. M. Umer Chapra is presenting his second topic after lunch break i.e the 3^rd topic of the seminar.

Dr. Umer Chapra…

The 3^rd topic of the seminar entitled: “The Global Financial Crisis: Can Islamic Finance Help?”

Some introduction on the 3^rd topic.

Extra: Food and Treat

Breakfast

Some more breakfast

Lunch: Appetizers

Lunch: Main course

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 27^th September 2009, Sunday, from a perspective of me as a seminar participant)

p/s: Economics is one of my favourite subjects while I was in upper secondary and at the sixth form center. Despite of that I am not "jump" into a field that directly related to my favourite subject. Moreover, I have my own weekness with regards to this subject i.e in dealing numbers and graphs.

However, I do refresh and increase my knowledge in Economic by reading newspapers, magazines, journals, articles in the internet, and by attending some “free” seminars, talks and workshops.

Though Economic is not directly related to my present career, it is important for me to update my knowledge in Economic to understand what is happening around us especially that involved money matters and the production of goods and services as well as the issues arise from them.

Some of the words/ phrases in Economics that I have learnt since a few decades ago: supply and demand, scarce resources, choice, opportunity cost, production of goods and services, price, cost of production, distributions of goods and service, the functions of government, central bank, monetary policy, fiscal policy, banking system, ….and the latest one is “Islamic Finance”.

Related links:

Khutbahs in Conjunctions with Aidilfitri 1430H

2009-09-22T21:53:00.006+08:00

22^nd September 2009, Tuesday – Yesterday (1^st Syawal 1430H), I went to Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien mosque in Bandar Seri Begawan to perform mass Aidilfitri sunnat prayer. After the prayer, I did listen to the khutbahs (sermon). There are two khutbahs. The first khutbah urges all Muslims to take precautionary measures to avoid the increase the risk of spreading Influenza A H1N1, particularly by following the advice of Ministry of Health.

The second khutbah advised Muslims to spend wisely and avoid accumulating debts. Excessive amounts of debts can make them into deep trouble. And their trouble also do affect others. In addition, the khutbah reminds Muslim not to use water and electricity excessively.

p/s: Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque, Bandar Seri Begawan is my favourite mosque to perform Aidilfitri (and Aidiladha) sunnat prayer because I can easily get free parking at Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah complex parking lots….and I can easily get a place to pray. I can pray outside if I cannot find a place inside the mosque.I usually bring my own prayer mat just in case I pray outside.

Extra

The following photo shows some of the foods that I ate during a family gathering on 1^st Syawal 1430H, Monday.

Related links:

His Majesty Titah in Conjunctions with Aidilfitri 1430H

2009-09-22T21:31:00.003+08:00

22^nd September 2009, Tuesday – Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam delivered his titah at Istana Nurul Iman which was telecasted over Radio Television Brunei on the eve of 1^st Syawal 1430H/20^th September 2009, Sunday.

In his titah, His Majesty reminded us to be grateful when encountering a blessing and be patient when met with calamity.

In relation to Influenza A H1N1 pandemic, His Majesty reminded us to be patient. And, in addition, we also must make an effort (“iktihar”) to reduce the risk of spreading the H1N1 by following the authority advice and guidelines.

Due to this, HM himself has taken the initiative not to open the Istana Nurul Iman to the public during this year Aidilfitri celebration.

Related Links:

Aidilfitri Greetings

2009-09-19T22:15:00.003+08:00

I wish all Muslims anywhere in the world

a happy and blessed Aidilfitri.

19 September 2009, Sabtu – Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri diucapkan kepada semua umat Islam di seluruh dunia, khususnya umat di Negara Brunei Darussalam dan para pengunjung laman blog ini.

Semoga segala amalan kitani di bulan Ramadan diterima oleh Allah. Dengan itu, Aidilfitri pada tahun ini akan lebih bermakna. Ini kerana disebabkan Ramadan kitani menyambut Aidilfitri.

Brunei Darussalam’s 1st Syawal 1430H Is On 21st September 2009, Monday.

2009-09-19T21:56:00.008+08:00

19^th September 2009, Saturday – Brunei Darussalam’s 1^st Syawal 1430H will be on 21^st September 2009, Monday. This was announced by Yang Mulia Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Awang Haji Metussin bin Haji Baki, Hakim Mahkamah Tinggi Syar’iah through Radio Televisyen Brunei a few hours ago, due to the Syawal crescent is not sighted. And, tomorrow (20th September 2009) is still the month of Ramadan i.e 30 Ramadan 1430H.

Muslims in Brunei Darussalam will perform Aidilfitri sunnat prayer at all mosques and suraus at 7.30am on 1^st Syawal 1430H / 21^st September 2009M, Monday.

In conjunction with this, Brunei Darussalam will have 2 days Aidilfitri public holidays i.e on 21^st (Monday) and 22^nd (Tuesday) September 2009. Meanwhile students and teachers (who are on holiday) will have Special Aidilfitri school holiday until 27^th September 2009, Sunday. The 4^th school term will commence on 28^th September 2009, Monday.

The following photo shows Yang Mulia Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Metusin bin Haji Baki, Brunei Darussalam’s Syar’iah High Court Judge, is announcing that the Syawal moon is not sighted:

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 19^th September 2009, Saturday)

Related Links:

Food During Aidilfitri & Jamuan Aidilfitri

2009-09-19T21:43:00.007+08:00

19th September 2009, Saturday – Aidilfitri is a time of celebration. A celebration of our success fasting in the month of Ramadan. During Aidilfitri celebration, food is one of the top of the list items….Simply because you must have foods to serve your guests.

The following is the list of famous food that I usually find on the menu of the houses I had visited in the previous years:

• Soto (soup plus noodle) (*Available at my wife’s grandparent almost every year)
• Sate & ketupat
• Sate goreng
• Kek tapak kuda (a horse-shoe shape cake filled with Nutella)
• Kacang senyum a.k.a pistachio nut
• Gajus a.k.a cashew nut with serunding

Where is the baulu, ardam, cincin, madu kasirat, selurut, …..? How about kek lapis and biscuits? “macam kurang demand” (less people eat these).

And...during this year International Halal Products Expo 2009, Royal Brunei Catering does produce and promote Syawal Mooncake. I think this year Chinese Moon Festival is in Syawal. I am looking forward to see the moon cakes are served during this Syawal.

Let’s see what are on the menu this year…..and what are the people favourites.

I am wondering if somebody will serve burger (ready-made or homemade) during this coming festival especially during their Jamuan Aidilfitri (which is commonly known Hari Raya Open House).

I prefer what people called “Hari Raya Open House” as “Jamuan Aidilfitri” or “Jamuan Raya” because the house is already “opened” to “anyone” during this Syawal (especially in the first week of Syawal). Moreover, you have to invite your families and friends during so-called “Hari Raya Open House”.

Jamuan Aidilfitri is a special time allocated to families and friends to come and have some foods. In other words, this is the time that you are available at home and available to treat your families and friends with your special Aidilfitri menu.

(Photo: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 17th September 2009, Thursday)

Related links:

CuboiArt: Don't Buy This Book (Perfect Guide for Perfect Open House)

My First Attempt Making Homemade Burger

2009-09-18T14:09:00.005+08:00

18th September 2009, Friday --Last night, I made my first attempt making homemade burger. I find out that making homemade burger patties is more expensive than buying the ready-made burger patties.

The Breadcrumbs

The Burger Buns

McCormik Montreal Steak Seasoning

Maggi Chilli Sauce. Actually, I prefer Life Chilli Sauce.

Minced beef.

Tomatoes.

Grill them.

Toast the bun. Put the cheese and let it melts.

This is my the first one.

Tomato slices.

Toast the bun for the second one.

The second burger is done.

I cut it into half.

Actually, somethings are missing in its taste and texture. May be I should add iceberg lettuce, onions, tomato sauce, and fried egg to give it more ummph.

May be, I should try adding bbq sauce or black pepper sauce....Talking about burger with black pepper sauce, I really like McDonald's Prosperity Burger.

p/s: I forget something when I ate the burger last night. There was no Coca-Cola or Pepsi-Cola. This drink is a must when I eat burger.....

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 17th September 2009, Thursday)

"My Wish Have Been Granted By BIBD", Episode 5

2009-09-17T22:42:00.009+08:00

17th September 2009, Thursday --Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) granted the 5th batch of the wishmakers their wishes in a ceremony that was held at the Lobby of BIBD Kiulap branch on 16th September 2009, Wednesday (yesterday).

Acting Managing Director of BIBD, Javed Ahmad presented the wish award to the 10 lucky customers.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 16th September 2009, Wednesday)

Related Links:

Abdul Rashid's Blog: BIBD Wish Campaingn Official Launching Ceremony.
Abdul Rashid's Blog: "My Wish Have Been Granted By BIBD", Episode 1.
Abdul Rashid's Blog: "My Wish Have Been Granted by BIBD", Episode 2.
For further details about BIBD Wish Campaingn, please visit: www.bibdwish.com
The Brunei Times, 17th September 2009: BIBD Makes Dreams and Wishes True.
Anak Brunei: BIBD 5th Wish Awards Prize Presentation.

Bersungkai Gathering at Aiana Restaurant with BFF

2009-09-17T22:13:00.006+08:00

17th September 2009, Thursday --Yesterday, I went to a bersungkai (breaking the fast) gathering with the others BFFers that was held at Aiana Restaurant, Melabau Complex, Berakas. The restaurant is located very near to Serusop Mosque. The sungkai buffet at the restaurant is very affordable at BND6.90 per adult.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 16th September 2009, Wednesday)

Suzuki Swift Sport Is Now Available at Boustead Brunei

2009-09-14T20:53:00.010+08:00

14th September 2009, Monday -- On 11th Sepetember 2009, Friday, I went to Boustead at Beribi for servicing my Suzuki Swift. This service is including replacing the engine oil and the oil filter. In addition, my Suzuki Swift was washed (outside) and vacuum (interior).

While waiting for my car, I dropped by at the Suzuki showroom to have a closer look of the newly arrive Suzuki Swift Sport. Actually, the car is available for sale but it is not yet officially launched. It might be launched this coming October. I guess this will coincide with the Aidilfitri open house that may be held by Boustead.

The Swift Sport is available in 2 transmission mode: auto or manual. The price? Be ready to pay about BND430-BND450 per month of hire purchase instalment (for 7 years).

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 11th September 2009, Friday)

p/s: I want one.....

No Aidilfitri Open House at Istana Nurul Iman This Year

2009-09-11T18:14:00.006+08:00

11th September 2009, Friday- There will be no Aidilfitri open house at Istana Nurul Iman this year. This is due to the precautionary measure to reduce the risk of spreading of Influenza A H1N1.

From Pelita Brunei Online:

Istana Nurul Iman tidak akan dibuka
untuk junjung ziarah sempena Hari Raya
tahun ini
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Khamis, 10 September. - Pada menjunjung titah perintah Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, dengan ini Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Penggawa Laila Bentara Istiadat Diraja Dalam Istana Pengiran Haji Alauddin bin Pengiran Paduka Tuan Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, Grand Chamberlain mengumumkan bahawasanya Istana Nurul Iman tidak akan dibuka pada tahun ini bagi membolehkan orang ramai mengadap dan menjunjung ziarah ke hadapan majlis Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan kerabat diraja sempena Hari Raya Aidilfitri.

Menurut Siaran Akhbar Pejabat Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam bahawa langkah ini adalah diambil atas nasihat Kementerian Kesihatan untuk mengelakkan peningkatan risiko bagi merebaknya wabak Influenza A (H1N1) dan demi menjaga kepentingan dan keselamatan orang awam serta sebagai langkah ke arah mengekalkan pengawalan wabak tersebut yang pada masa ini di tahap yang baik di Negara Brunei Darussalam.

Related links:

The Brunei Times: No Raya Open House at Istana

SRTLDB Held A Khatam Al-Quran Ceremony

2009-09-10T23:46:00.007+08:00

10th September 2009, Thursday (20th Ramadan 1430H)– Sekolah Rendah Tentera Laut Diraja Brunei, Muara (SRTLDB) held a Khatam Al-Quran ceremony at their assembly hall this morning. The recital of the surahs was lead by Ustaz No.1. This ceremony is for the teachers of the school. It was held as a Ramadan and end of 3rd term activity.

The 3rd term school holiday, which includes special Ramadan and Aidilfitri holiday, will begin on 13th September (Sunday) until 27th September 2009 (Sunday).

This ceremony was followed by the bertahlil and doa arwah. It was closed with the recital of doa selamat.

This morning event was continued with the presentation of welfare contribution to teachers and support staffs whom the member of their immediate family has passed away recently.

The winners of the ASEAN corner competition also received their prizes from the school’s headmistress, Cikgu Hajah Rusunah bin Haji Paka. The consolation prizes are also given away.

Lastly, the pupils received bunga telur and campur from the teachers.

The Bunga Telur

In this morning Khatam Al-Quran ceremony, we can see a number variety of “bunga telur”. Most of them are with the eggs. A few of them are replaced with the chocolates and/or sweets. Some of the “bunga” are replaced with small paper boxes, plastic packets or bags, or nicely designed handkerchief. Mine (and a number of my colleague) is the one which is wrapped with the handkerchief. Whatever they are, the objective is to give gift to those who come to the ceremony. The keyword here is “gift”.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 10th September 2009, Thursday)

Bersungkai with Swifters of SCB at Taurean Cafe @ The Arch

2009-09-07T22:17:00.008+08:00

7th September 2009, Monday -- Yesterday, I joined the other Swifters of Swift Club Brunei bersungkai (breaking the fast) at the Taurean Cafe @ The Arch, Kiarong.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 6th September 2009, Sunday)

Please visit the other Swifters' blog:

Education in Brunei Darussalam: The Prayer

2009-09-05T21:06:00.005+08:00

5th September 2009, Saturday – In Brunei Darussalam, before the students start their lesson, they recite a prayer during the assembly. In some schools, they recite some short verses from the Al-Quran before the prayer. The verses are Surah Fatihah, Surah Kafirun, Surah Ikhlas, Surah Falak, Surah Nas, Surah Insyirah. The recital of the verses and the prayer is led by one of the selected students.

Among the contents of the prayer are to seek Allah’s blessing so that the students become a useful person to their religion, people, and their country. We also hope that our country is continously become a peaceful and prosperous country in which Islam become a way of life. We pray that our Sultan is leading us to the path that is blessed by Allah.

The following is the prayer text (in Malay):

Doa Sekolah

Dengan nama Allah yang Maha Pengasih lagi Maha Penyayang.

Ya Allah, penuhkanlah dada kami dengan hidayahMu supaya kami menjadi orang-orang yang Engkau redai di dunia dan di akhirat.

AMIN

Ya Allah, kurniakanlah rahmatMu kepada kami mudah-mudahan kami akan menjadi orang-orang yang beriman dan sentiasa takwa kepadaMu, berguna kepada agamaMu, berguna kepada bangsa, dan tanahair kami.

AMIN

Serta sentiasa taat setia yang tidak berbelah bahagi kepada Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Sultan kami.

AMIN

Mudah-mudahan baginda akan sentiasa menjadi pemimpin kami ke jalan yang Engkau redai.

AMIN

Dan makbulkanlah hasrat baginda menjadikan Negara Brunei Darussalam ini sebuah negara yang aman makmur dengan Islam dijadikan sebagai cara hidup yang Engkau redai.

AMIN

Ya Allah, dengan limpah kurniaMu rakyat negara kami akan hidup rukun damai di dalam negara kami yang berdaulat Brunei Darussalam.

AMIN

Ya Allah, makbulkanlah permohonan kami dengan berkat nabi kami Nabi Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wassalam.

AMIN

A Visit To Gerai Ramadan at Stadium Negara Hassanal Bolkiah on 7th Ramadan 1430H

2009-08-28T21:14:00.007+08:00

28th August 2009, Friday --Today, 7th Ramadan 1430H, I visited the Gerai Ramadan at the parking lots of Stadium Negara Hassanal Bolkiah for the second time. Actually, this was my outing together with the others in Brunei Forever Forum (BFF).

Despite this is a photography outing, I did not manage get the photos that technically very good. There are still out of focus subjects. I think the photos that I have taken last week are better than this.

Talking about food (which is my favourite subject), my mission in this visit is to get either kuih malaya, kebab, or murtabak. Luckily, I managed to get the kuih malaya. During my first outing, I did not manage to get it (from the stall) because it had been sold out.

KUIH MALAYA a.k.a APAM BALIK

Kuih malaya is a kind of pancake with peanuts, sugar, raisins, sweetened milk, and margarine toppings. The price of kuih malaya at the Gerai Ramadan Stadium is vary from stall to stall. At this stall (from where the photos are taken), the larger one costs BND2.50, and the regular size costs BND2.00. The other stalls may costs BND2.00 for the larger and BND1.50 for the smaller.

Why "apam balik" is called "kuih malaya" in Brunei? From what I have heard, apam balik was introduced by "orang Malaya" who came from Tanah Melayu or Malaya (now, Semananjung Malaysia). So, Bruneians like to call it "kuih malaya" instead of "apam balik" (correct me if I am wrong).

I prefer the kuih malaya which has more sweetened milk topping that make it felt creamier at the center. And, my daughter and son like to eat pancake, including kuih malaya, dipping with sweetened milk.

KEBAB

In order to get some of the people favourite items at the Gerai Ramadan Stadium, you have to come a bit earlier i.e around 5pm. If not, you may facing a long queue or the items may be sold out.

This is the case when I want to get the kebab (from a stall) this evening. I try to get it in my next visit there.

BURGER

May be you and I should also try this homemade burger from a stall at the BBQ foods area. It does attract a lot of customer to get one.

(Photos: Abdul Rashid Haji Tahir. Taken on 28th August 2009, Friday)

Related links:

Gerai Ramadan at Stadium Negara Hassanal Bolkiah on 1st Ramadan 1430H.