BIG Jul-Sep 2016 by CHMP MEDIA

July // Sept 2016

AVAILABLE ON INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS, AIRLINE OFFICES, HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & CAFES THROUGHOUT BORNEO

Editor’s Note @bigborneo

n this quarter, we pay tribute to our women folk. Men, you will get your turn later, remember the phrase ‘ladies first’? This issue is about inspirational stuff - stories of women who have worked hard, against many odds, to climb to where they are, some even reaching the skies like Royal Brunei Airline’s first lady captain, Captain Czarena. And there are those who make it their life’s work to make other women’s lives better such as Margaret Bedus, who runs a group in Sarawak that offers shelter and help to women and child victims of domestic violence and exploitation. Or Jacqueline Fong, who founded a songket production house in Kuching to preserve the ancient craft of weaving and help local artisans earn a decent living. Everyone has a different view on what makes a strong woman. I asked a few lady friends who, in my opinion, are women of substance themselves, what they thought and they wrote their strong-women-qualities on Post-its for me, here are some of the ones that I can print (some are hilariously too naughty for print, strong women are funny and they can laugh at themselves!)

BIG: Borneo Insider’s Guide @bigborneo Publisher

CHMP MEDIA Editor-At-Large

Wan Zainal Shazali Editor

Pauline Chan Assistant Editor

“A strong woman knows herself well and loves herself”, “I believe true strength is the same for everybody regardless of gender: thoughtfulness, kindness, confidence and never playing the victim”, “Kindness, thoughtfulness, determination, tenacity. Do all of that with poise and 4” heels”, “ A strong woman realises she has a unique beauty and accepts what she can’t change. She focuses on what she loves and works with that”, “Definitely one who is independent, self-sufficient and self-reliant”, “She is decisive, courageous and willing to take risks, and take responsibility for whatever happens.” Agree, agree. My own personal growth has been influenced by such a woman - the kind of woman I see in many wonderful ladies that I have met. Women of strength help one another, they have compassion and they have the ability to uplift another woman and make her feel useful when she has done her best. They are confident of their own self worth that they never need to push someone down or brag about what they have or do in order to feel better about themselves. They help, nurture and encourage women to embrace their own strengths. That is empowering and that, is being strong.

biG stands for Borneo Insider’s Guide. It is a quarterly magazine that aims to entertain and share with readers the best there is to offer on lifestyle and travel in enigmatic Borneo and beyond. It is distributed at travel fairs, international events and Brunei high commissions abroad. biG is available at the arrival hall of Brunei International Airport, Brunei Tourism offices, Royal Brunei Airlines business class, all hotels, popular food and beverage outlets and foreign missions in Brunei. biG has a distribution network in the neighbouring states through the Sabah and Sarawak Tourism Boards as well as via prominent hotels in the respective capitals. Besides being Brunei’s very own publication for bridging its residents with a myriad of commercial and cultural offerings within the country, each issue also serves as the world’s window into the rich tapestry of Borneo’s life and culture. www.borneoinsidersguide.com

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Intan Abu Daniel Designer

Novri Rinaldi Editorial

Pamela Fletcher Shaf Said Johan Alias Heidi Munan Sales & Marketing

Bina Chauhan Brunei | biG contact@borneoinsidersguide.com T: (673) 2331031 F: (673) 2231031 Unit 49, Second Floor Haji Munchit & Hajah Dayang Rapiah Complex Kg Jaya Setia, Berakas, BD2713 Brunei Darussalam

The opinions, beliefs and viewpoints expressed by the various writers in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions, beliefs and viewpoints of biG Magazine.

events

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JuL

TO look 6-8

out FOR

this quarter jul 10oct 16 Sabah Women Painters Art Exhibition Sabah

This exhibition held at the Sabah Art Gallery is a showcase of the artwork of Sabah’s female artists as well as foreign women artists. The gallery promotes women artists by providing this exclusive platform for established and emerging women painters to display their work and raise their status in the art scene.

Hari Raya Aidilfitri Brunei, Sabah, Sarawak After the holy month of Ramadhan, Hari Raya Aidilfitri marks the beginning of a festive month

filled with joyous get-togethers in the Muslim community. It is a time when homes, decorated with bright lights, are thrown open to welcome wellwishers with a feast of traditional fare and colourful cakes.

jul 15 His Majesty’s 70th Birthday Brunei

His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei celebrates his 70th birthday. The public can look forward to a royal address by His Majesty, and all the districts taking part in celebrations throughout the month.

AUG 5-7

AUG 26-28 Merdeka Day

Rainforest World Music Festival 2016 Sarawak

Open Regatta

This Open Regatta is held annually to celebrate Merdeka Day and to promote sailing in Sabah. The regatta will be held at the Kinabalu Yacht Club at Tanjung Aru, Kota Kinabalu.

Renowned musicians from around the world will jam alongside indigenous musicians from Borneo. There will be three afternoons of interactive and educational workshops, ethnomusical lectures, jamming sessions and performances on the main stage at night.

SEP 25-26

Sleep Over & Night Safari at the Museum Sabah The Sabah Museum’s Night Safari gives school kids a fun lesson about nocturnal wildlife in a safe and natural environment. Kids can camp out at the museum’s Heritage Village, explore the Ethno Botanical Garden and find feathered friends during a bird-watching session. www.bruneitourism.travel | www.sabahtourism.com | www.sarawaktourism.com

JUL 21-30

Borneo Cultural Festival 2016 Sarawak When the Iban, Bidayuh, Orang Ulu, Malay, Melanau and Chinese communities in Sibu get together, they make it the biggest tourism event in town.

Contents biG dates Get out and about; let us show you what you can do around Borneo this quarter. biG scoop We scour around town and discover the newest and best products for you to love and desire this quarter. biG feature Take a closer look at what the Borneo Islanders are up to. biG trail Follow our plucky writers as they bring you stories from around Borneo. biG focus See who and

what we’re pointing our cameras at. biG talk We chat with personalities and discover their specialties. biG buzz We put our ears up and find out what is buzzing in town. made in Borneo We learn more about inspiring locals who have made their mark in Borneo. biG appetite We try the food so you can follow suit. Check out our food journeys.

biG listings We make a list of places to eat, drink and chill. biG essentials Here are some helpful tips for visitors just stepping onto our shores. biG navigator Find your bearings in Bandar Seri Begawan, Kota Kinabalu and Kuching with our walking maps of hot spots around the capital. biG screen See what’s playing in the movies around town.

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Girls’ Night Out There are a few needs to be met before leaving for a night out on the town. A special occasion requires a perfectly made-up face, the perfect dress and the best accessories to go with it, the right shade of nail polish, a spritz of perfume and last of all, a cup of tea to drink while you’re doing all those mad preparations. And once that’s done, what else is there for a girl to do but pick the right purse, go out, kick up some heels, and rule the world?

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1 Dress from Anyati Boutique & Atelier 2nd Flr Rizqun Hotel Gadong, Brunei (673) 245 6691 2 Cup & Saucer set from The Potters #8 Blk E Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II Kiulap, Brunei (673) 242 4000 3 5 7 9 Cosmetics from Missha #1.45B 1st Flr The Mall Abd Razak Complex Gadong, Brunei (673) 245 7700 4 11 12 Jewellery from Enya Bijoux @EnyaBijoux (673) 711 1427 6 “The Lady Chronograph by Alexander Shorokhoff” timepiece from Krasnaya, The Watch Art Gallery #03-10A The Mall Gadong, Brunei 8 10 Hand cream and perfume from The Body Shop Grd Flr The Mall Gadong, Brunei (673) 245 0339; Books from B:Read (@bruneiansread); Tote bag editor’s own

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Let the Good Times Roll!

Prints Charming Buy a customised T-shirt or tote bag from The Letterbox Company and get ready to collect them from one of the bright red letterboxes at their entrance. When your purchases are ready for collection, their ‘postmaster’ will send you a one-time pin number to open the lock on the letterbox. It’s a novel idea that has charmed customers who want to see their own designs on t-shirts and bags. Now you can customise your tees by using their in-house app or browse their shop in Setia Kenangan for products with artworks by local artists.

Komical Style Everyone is a superhero fan now, but unfortunately not everyone is willing to don a t-shirt with a huge Captain America shield emblazoned on it. Good news for minimalist comic book lovers out there, Komical.BN is here to save the day! Offering a line of uniquely designed t-shirts that you can wear to proclaim your love of all things Marvel and DC. While these t-shirts may have been designed with the pop culture nerds in mind, they’re stylish enough for anyone to wear. Komical Tel: (673) 884 6360 Facebook: Komical.BN Instagram: @komicalbn

The Letterbox Company Blk E, Unit 4, Setia Kenangan 2, Kg Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan Tel: (673) 715 3135 Facebook: Theletterboxco Instagram: @theletterboxco

Shape Shifter It may look like a giant rectangular pillow with a thick polyester cover, but the Koppla bean bag can be shaped into a chair, a stool, a couch or just leave it in its natural shape and

On May 13, what was considered the luckiest Friday the 13th for bowlers in Sarawak, the biggest bowling centre in Kuching City opened its doors to the public. Featuring 42 lanes built in accordance to international bowling standards, this new bowling centre is already considered to be the best in the region and a great new spot for professional and amateur bowlers alike to knock down some pins. Located at E-Mart Batu Kawah, Megalanes Bowling centre also has a restaurant, a bowling shop and a viewing area. Megalanes Bowling E-Mart Batu Kawah Lot 6369, 4th Mile, Jln Batu Kawah, Kuching, Sarawak Tel: (6082) 683 668

use it as a mattress. Koppla is a Brunei brand created by a brother and sister team who wanted bean bags made from high quality materials that would mould to your body shape and provide great support and comfort. Strong but lightweight, these water-resistant bean bags are easy to carry around making them perfect for indoor lounging

or outdoor gathering. Curl up in a Koppla bean bag and you will never want to get up. Available in eight solid colours. Available from Alsa Living Blk F, Unit 1, Setia Kenangan 2, Kg Kiulap, Bandar Seri Begawan Tel: (673) 233 7001 Facebook: Koppla Bean Bags Instagram: @koppla.bn

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feature

t a e S t s e b e Th y k S e In Th

aptain Sharifah Czarena Suriany Syed Hashim, is Royal Brunei Airlines first lady captain, in Brunei and South East Asia. She still recalls the day she found out that she made it to Captain with tears. The spotlight has been shining on Czarena this year ever since a photo of her and two of her female co-pilots taken in the

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cockpit on their way to Jeddah was shared on the social media and created a tidal wave of publicity. Czarena told BiG Magazine how she headed to flying school and never looked back. Tell us about the time when you flew into Jeddah with your women co-pilots SFO Sariana

and SFO Nadiah. What was that like? We normally fly with just two pilots at a time, unless it’s a really long flight, over 10 hours then there’ll be three of us. We get our rosters about a month in advance so we knew that the three of us will be flying together and we were really excited

was nine When Czarena e when tim a at d, years ol still allowed children were ght deck, fli e th t to visi to Brunei, coming back the lucky of e on she was t in the si to kids chosen nding, la a g rin du cockpit hile w , en So it was th at, se e th to in strapped g in be d re she remembe e of her aw in y el complet l , looking at al surroundings d screens, the buttons an landing the and watching cockpit, e th om itself fr impressed so as w na re Cza she fell in at th ed and amaz ho w le flying love with the the best om fr e, experienc e. an From seat on the pl ds, she ar w on that day a pilot. be to d te an w

message. After it was shared on social media, it went viral. Some time passed and our corporate communications department received requests for interviews. There was the Daily Mail , The Independent and the TV interview with Al-Jazeera, that was fun. After that we had another newspaper interview, and then I did one for Harper’s Bazaar, I enjoyed that one, I thought the write-up was really good. Why aren’t there more women pilots? Mental restrain I think. A lot of women probably don’t realise that it is possible for them to become a pilot. It’s just not one of those prominent occupations that women believe it’s possible for them. I think maybe there’s also a lack of female role models. Give us a brief insight into the kind of training you had to go through. Very intensive training. They gave us a year and a half to complete it but I managed to do it in 15 months and it was nonstop from day one. There are

because we are not just work colleagues, we’re good friends. Coincidently, that day was Brunei’s national day. I took the initiative to take a photo of us and send out a national day

two parts. First, you learn the theory of flying and technical knowledge, we have 14 exams to sit for. The passing mark is 75% and if you speak to any pilot they would probably agree

that is the toughest part of the whole process. The second part is the flying, where you start with a small light aircraft, a single propeller and you move on to a two propeller, and you finish off with a flying exam. After you pass that, you get your air transport pilot license, and from there, you have to clock up 1500 hours of flying before you can move on. Training was all done in Cranfield, UK at the Cabair College of Air Training. Have you ever faced resistance or discrimination as a woman in a highly maledominated field? Absolutely not. It’s just that there are more men than women in this industry. If you’re talking about hurdles and challenges as a pilot, that’s the same with any pilot, male or female. What’s the best part of flying a plane? Is it the view? Absolutely! Everyday is different. The world changes and I get to see that first hand from 36,000 feet. Everyone is so used to seeing the world from below, from the ground, but I am so very lucky that I get to see it from above, and that’s the best part of my job, I must say, it’s the flying itself. What kind of traits should a pilot have? First and foremost, personally I think, is that you must have self-confidence, you need to believe that you are able to do the job. You must be dedicated, totally committed in your training and on the job. You need to be able to communicate well with people, work well as a team and at the same time, have leadership qualities. I really believe that all these skills can be developed but you have to want to develop it in order to be a successful pilot.

There are many countries where women do not have the same privileges and freedom as women in Brunei. We are certainly very blessed here. What would you like to see more happening in the advancement of women today? I really have to agree with you that we in Brunei are really very blessed. I mean in RBA we have equal opportunities for both men and women. And if you see the advancement of women around the world, it’s all very positive. The changes you see across all fields are very encouraging and I am confident that it will continue, in Brunei and around the world. Can you name a memorable time in your flying career? It was the day I became a captain. I became a captain in 2012 but I started as a cadet in 2003. A lot of hard work, dedication and commitment went into my training. Initially my goal was to get my license, become a pilot, when that happened, I flew with Royal Brunei and I was committed to becoming very good at my job, and then there was this goal to become a captain. Anyone who becomes a pilot dreams of being in command of an airplane as a captain. Seating wise, the captain sits on the left hand side, and the first officer sits on the right. So, up to 2012, I was seated at the right hand side, doing the best job I can in order to one day move to the left. When I was selected to become a captain, there was training involved, it was quite a long process. I remember telling my friends and family that I was really sorry, I had to put my life on hold because this was very important to me, I really really wanted to become a captain. (I am getting goosebumps already!) In my check flight, I had a trainer or examiner who sat with me throughout the flight, to see if

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left hand seat.” This always brings tears to my eyes and it’s a moment I will never forget. Nine years of hard work really paid off. I finally achieved my goal and those few words just had so much meaning.

I was proficient and competent to become a captain. We had to do two flights – go somewhere and come back, so we went to Melbourne. The first flight went well and I had to wait two nights before I can do the second part of the check, flying back to Brunei. I remember landing in Brunei and thinking “Oh how did I do? How did it go? Did I pass?”. And the first officer who was flying back with

me, had a huge smile on his face, I found out later why he had that big smile, but at that time I was wondering ‘What are you smiling about?” (laughter). I was still very nervous, not knowing whether I had passed or not. So we shut down the engine, I turned to the trainer and he looked at me and said, “Czarena, well done”, he put out his hand to shake my hand, and continued, “Welcome to the

Which is your favourite city to visit and where must one go to in that city? Right now, I love Melbourne. There’s this place, if you ever go to Melbourne, which is quite easy to find, in the central business district, called Brother Baba Budan, along Little Bourke Street, it’s just a little coffee joint but the coffee is spectacular. You must go and try it. His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei flew with you and your first officers on May 26. Tell us about that day and what memorable words did His Majesty have for you all. It’s so hard to find the words to

BIG WEB

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express how I felt or how we felt because it’s not everyday when your monarch wants to fly with you. When we heard about this opportunity we were elated. On that day, we were all very nervous to meet His Majesty but he made us feel so comfortable as soon as we were in the flight deck. He loves flying. To watch His Majesty fly is such a delight and he is an excellent pilot. We just flew around the airport in the 787, he piloted the plane twice, we were in the air for 45 minutes. After that His Majesty wanted to observe me fly the plane so he sat in while I flew one round. It was such an enjoyable experience. The thing that really touched our hearts was at the end of the flight, he told us that his intention of flying with us was to show his appreciation for our achievements. It was such an honour to get his recognition. No words to describe it.

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of-a-kind classic pieces that can be worn on every occasion. For weddings, we offer madeto-order engagement and wedding rings incorporating real gemstones in white and yellow gold settings that can be customised to suit the needs and budget of the bride and groom. These can be ordered in advance and purchased on an easy-payment installment scheme.

nyati is a high-energy and dynamic lady with an entrepreneurial touch, running multiple businesses with the help of her team. Besides her fashion business, she also has an event management company and launderette, and she manages all of them in a most fashionable way. For our interview, she strides into her new boutique wearing a sleek custom-made outfit and Prada high heels, it is clear that Anyati is a fashion force determined to empower women and take them to fashionably new heights. What does your new establishment offer? Our new location has a window display of new designs of wedding gowns, evening and casual wear which shoppers and hotel guests can order to be made and customise for a perfect fit. It’s on

d e s s e Dr ess

for Succ

on a bespoke r consultation ion designer fo i at ny A to When you go more than dress tips. Fash get lo Abdullah, dress, you will siness owner Anyati Orcul Anyati’s bu owroom and multin utique and sh bo w ne or at the Rizqu a ed open the second flo for her fashion on r lie te A Boutique and 28 this year. It is a gallery consultation a ch Hotel on Mar omised jewellery and also ial occasion. st ec cu sp d a r an fo s s gn es si de m dr ning the drea room for plan the second floor of Rizqun Hotel at The Gadong Mall, so hotel guests, shoppers and moviegoers would be able to see the showroom when they step out onto the second floor as this is the only shop that faces the lift entrance of the hotel. Our in-house designers will be available by appointment for consultation and measurement. We give free consultation to brides and grooms before they decide on their wedding trousseau. We also sell a few very limited

ready-to-wear pieces for tourists, embroidered and beaded scarves, and luxury items all handmade and designed by myself. And we have a range of South Sea and fresh water pearl jewellery, mostly one-

How do you manage your multiple businesses? Training and delegation are the keys to getting the job done. Keeping in touch with the staff while attending to family matters and enjoying the company of friends is very important to ensure that deadlines are met. My employees interact with me 24/7 and they too are cognizant of the fact that if in doubt, they have to ask me immediately to avoid delays in terms of decision-making. You seem to have the entrepreneurial touch, what else would you like to do? Whatever that may impact the world at large, one that will make a change in the mindset of others, giving them the opportunity to be more productive, useful, resilient and strong in mind, body and spirit. Who are your favourite fashion designers? Coco Chanel, Cristobal Balenciaga, Christian Dior, Pierre Cardin, Yves Saint Laurent, Hubert de Givenchy and other designers who led a fashion revolution which put this industry on the world centre stage.

Anyati Boutique & Atelier 2nd Flr, Rizqun Hotel, Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan Tel: (673) 245 6691, E-mail: emailme@anyati.com Grd Flr, Unit 5, Bangunan Hj Untong Bin Hj Ali Spg 235, Jalan Pasar Gadong, Kg Kiarong Bandar Seri Begawan Tel: (673) 245 6194

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In Sarawak, women extraordinary ay for w e are paving th stand to en om other w and es lv up for themse in safer es liv er tt build be . Here are environments ree such th of s ie the stor dividuals in us eo ag ur co ea ad m ve who ha their home in ce en er ff di ng. town of Kuchi

A weaver working on a songket fabric in Tanoti

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takes up a lot of time and energy. A few months ago, Jackie resigned from her job with the bank. She now spends ‘the daytime at Tanoti, and the night at the Batik Hotel!’ as she puts it. In both places, she is the driving force that pulls, sometimes pushes, the staff and trainees with the force of her focused, disciplined enthusiasm. Innovation, market-oriented design and branding, stringent quality control and professional finishing lead the way forward for traditional crafts. Tanoti is her award-winning songket production house, testament to her artisans’ ability to innovate the exquisite heritage

e n i l e u q Jac FOnG

Tanoti Co-founder of Heidi Munan

ackie Fong is passionate about Sarawak crafts and arts, artisans and artists. ‘Creative people should have an economy of their own in this country!’ she says. ‘The heritage is there, the skills are there, yet many of them earn just peanuts!’ Jackie is eminently qualified to speak about the economy: after school in Kuching and Australia she read law at the University of Bristol, and took up employment in the banking sector. The student body at Bristol wasn’t just international, it was multi-cultural in every sense, and Jackie’s career as an investment banker involved a lot of travel and overseas postings. A stint in Jakarta awakened her interest in textiles. Batik, of course, ‘and I found myself drawn to the more

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

colourful regional products around the capital, they’re different from the classical Jogjakarta style.’ A stay in Istanbul, some 10 years ago, introduced the young banker to an unusual fellow named Mike. He ran a hotel, but he seemed to have unlimited time for leisurely chats about every topic on earth! He was extremely well versed in the arts scene of the region, modern and traditional. I was impressed, and soon I made up my mind that I would have a hotel one day, too!’ Back in her home town, things ‘sort of fell into place. I saw a For Rent sign on a suitable building, down in Padungan, and I said to myself, this is it!’ It, today, is the Batik Hotel. The budding hotelier soon found out, however, that there’s more

1. A woven Tanoti Tree 2. A sample of woven songket from Tanoti

to hospitality than sitting in a tastefully decorated salon and discussing the arts! The arts were never far from Jackie’s mind. Through a friend, she got interested in a songket training and production enterprise, Tanoti. Jackie was persuaded to help out, and eventually managed it herself. ‘If the workshop had closed down, the girls who were already trained would not just have lost their jobs; they would soon have forgotten their skills, too.’ Running a hotel and an art textiles workshop efficiently

craft. Through Tanoti, Jackie is also actively promoting Penan handicrafts, and in this field too the criteria are stringently applied. She doesn’t shirk up-country travelling into remote areas, provided she can help people to improve their craft production and earn a decent living. The next big enterprise won’t be in the jungle; Jackie is the driving force behind a planned artists’ and craftspeople project to be housed in Kuching. ‘The details aren’t all finalised yet,’ she confesses, ‘I’d rather not make any public announcements just now. But keep an eye open for the news – Borneo 744 will be the turning point for Malaysian craft!’

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isn’t only me, Heidi!’ Margaret remonstrates, ‘there’s a whole group of us, a few staff and many volunteers, who keep up the work of the Sarawak Women for Women Society.’ True, as far as it goes. But this former teacher has been steadily involved in SWWS since the society’s foundation in 1985, and since her retirement from teaching, she has been at the office, out in the field or at a conference almost all the time. Margaret is well qualified to speak for SWWS. Formed over 30 years ago, the group has set itself high goals: to foster the self-development of women, promote (actually, demand!) equal opportunities and rights for women, to advise and shelter the victims of domestic violence and exploitation; the latter are often children, too. Malaysia has adequate laws to protect all its citizens, of course – ‘but some women, especially those of little or no education, don’t know their rights; they don’t even know they have rights,’ as Margaret points out. In a crisis, they don’t know who to turn to. SWWS offers two options to women in immediate distress: the

drop-in centre, and a crisis phone line. Many volunteers are needed to ‘woman’ these two services. Those handling the crisis phone must be conversant in a number of languages; a badly upset violence victim may speak even her own dialect incoherently. The drop-in centre is a quiet place to rest, to find a sympathetic listener, and obtain advice on how to deal with problems. Margaret regrets that at the moment, mainly due to financial constraints, there is no properly equipped shelter, ‘nowhere in Sarawak, not even in Kuching!’ There is a ‘safe room’ at the hospital to house victims of severe violence who were admitted for medical assistance, but it isn’t a place where an abused woman, possibly with children, could stay for a few weeks. ‘We are looking into every possibility,’ she says, confident that eventually suitable premises will be found in every main centre of Sarawak. Besides immediate crisis assistance and counseling, what’s on the activities schedule? In one word – education. Not just women, the whole population

eidi Munan is a distinctive figure in the Sarawak scene. The silver-haired Honorary Curator of Beads at the Sarawak Museum with a witty bone is a storyteller at heart who was fond of writing short stories, even though she confessed

HEIDI MUNAN LADY KUCHING'S bEAD

Pauline Chan

MarGaret bedus

President of Sarawak Women for Women Society (SWWS ) Heidi Munan has to be educated to recognize the rights, and fulfill the duties, of all members. Public awareness exhibitions, seminars, workshops and community outreach are going on at all times. SWWS collaborates with government agencies and other NGOs in supporting human trafficking victims too. Many educational activities are aimed specifically at children

and adolescents, who need to protect themselves from sexual predators and cyber-criminals. Margaret is fully engaged in these programmes; she travels around the state to attend professional meetings and conferences, never losing sight of the aim: make the world safe for women, children and the weaker ones among us.

her stories ‘never saw the light of print’, she still had a lot of stories about her adopted home to share and penned several books such as Culture Shock! Borneo, Culture Shock! Malaysia, Sarawak Crafts: Methods, Materials, and Motifs, and the Beads of Borneo. A former teacher, who became a regular editorial contributor in the papers and magazines, Heidi certainly knows Sarawak very well, in particular Kuching, where she has lived since 1965. Born in Weinfelden in the north-east of Switzerland, her family migrated to New Zealand when she was still a school girl. There, she met

a young handsome Sarawakian man in university, and the rest is, well you know, the usual love story. Heidi has a nickname - The Bead Lady - a name she earned as an authority on traditional beads and she spends her days working as a bead curator at the Sarawak Museum. “It’s mainly consultative work, intermittent, ‘when and as’,” explains Heidi, “I myself hardly collect beads – I can’t afford the good ones and I don’t want the cheap ones – so I am very happy to be able to look at, handle and study the Museum’s collection.” “Long ago, when I first got to Sarawak, I saw ladies in the pasar

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wearing traditional costumes and they were always sporting beads (for real, not for a cultural show!), I learnt to figure out who wore what”, said Heidi when we asked how she got interested in beads. Although a bead lover, Heidi admits that she can’t make them herself. “Beads are a niche interest but those who get into beads will find them a very rewarding study. You start with something simple like ‘personal adornment’ and you can go on into ethnography, history, archaeology, historical geography, the technical aspects of glass-making, lapidary art, and even deeper into solid state chemistry.” But what she can make is needlework crafts, like her ethnically costumed ‘Saradolls’ and large multi-media appliquéembroidery-collage pictures. Heidi is a keen supporter of handmade crafts in general.

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She wrote a book 1 about Sarawak Crafts and is helping to promote and preserve the heritage and skills behind them. “We’re working on it, and I am glad to report that the Sarawak Tourism authorities are doing their bit”. With competitions for ‘best craftsperson/artisan’ and the like, crafts people received recognition for their creativity and gain better exposure, and she adds, “a number of agencies and private persons are helping too. The skills are still here, but in the end we have to improve design, branding and marketing techniques.”

1. Handmade Saradolls 2. A textile picture showing the Rainforest World Music Festival and Crafts Bazaar 3. A textile picture showing a view of Kuching from the Astana

BiG trail

Relax, Reflect and Reset For many of us, life gets in the way of a healthy lifestyle. Long days at the office, multiple errands, duties and tasks in a day take our focus away from more important matters, like our health. While many of us tend to see weekend getaways as a chance to rest and relax, it’s also a time to hit pause on our hectic lives and press the reset button. And what better way to reset the body and mind than by surrounding yourself with the peaceful sounds of a tropical rainforest and meditating to the view of the rising sun? Intan Abu Daniel

uring the last weekend of March, a group of ladies and one gentleman boarded a boat and travelled down the winding mangrove-lined waterways to Temburong district, and hopped onto longboats that took them to the rainforest of Temburong to take part in “Reflections in the Rainforest” – the first yoga retreat ever held in Brunei. Organised by Hip and Healthy, the two-day retreat held at the Sumbiling Eco Village which is nestled in the heart of Temburong’s virgin rainforest, comprised a programme designed to detoxify, rejuvenate and heal the connection between body, mind and soul amidst nature’s

green surroundings. Besides meditation and yoga sessions by renowned yogi instructors Nora (Danura Yoga) and Amani (Yoga with Amani) in the open air, there was also a walk to forage for wild vegetables, river tubing, river rafting, a swim in the river and a workshop making nature mandalas (the making of patterns using real flowers). Delicious and nutritious meals specially prepared by the Hip and Healthy team were also served throughout the weekend. Founder of Hip and Healthy, Anna Aziz commented, “I have been wanting to host a yoga retreat for a while and promote Brunei as a wellness destination. Rather than jetting off to Bali or India or anywhere else, Brunei is

an ideal location.” The first retreat was a success, and now Anna plans to organise more wellness retreats in Brunei before the end of the year, and she hopes to highlight other places in the country, such as the Tutong district, as a wellness destination in the future.

Interested in joining the next wellness retreat? Follow Hip and Healthy on Facebook (Hip and Healthy), Instagram (@hip_and_healthy) or check out their website www.hipandhealthy.net for more details.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG trail

THE

RISE OF

SETIA KENANGAN 2 In case you’re wondering where in Brunei is Setia Kenangan 2, it’s those new blocks of shops behind Regent Square in Kiulap that everyone calls Regent Square 2. It’s one of those places where the official name is sidelined in favour of a name that the public prefers. Let’s not get hung up on names here, we want to dwell instead on the shops that are there and oh boy, what a delightful collection of shops there are.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG trail

1. Euroclassic 2. Games & Lattes 3. Revolution Brunei 4. Melur 5. WoMen Hair Brunei

here are three blocks of double-storey shops, not all of them occupied yet but they are gradually filling up, and it is here that you will find some of the most stylish shops in the country. It is quickly becoming a trendy shopping destination with its exciting array of chic, quirky, retro and fun retailers and restaurants. At night, it is currently the most buzzing area in town 6 with the elegant shops brightly lit and shimmering from the inside and drawing the crowds in to explore the new kid on the block that everyone is calling Regents Square 2.

The Library Cafe #6, Blk C, Grd Flr IG: thelibrarycafebwn

Games & Lattes #9, Blk E, Grd Flr, Tel: 2235200 IG: games.lattes FB: Games & Lattes

Under Armour #2-3, Blk D, Grd Flr, tel: 2230095 IG: @underarmourbrunei FB: Under Armour Brunei

DINING

Ner Dee Café #11, Blk F, 1st Flr, tel: 7214977 IG: nerdee.cafe FB: Ner Dee Café

FARO’s ROTISSERIE #8, Blk A, Grd Flr IG: @farosrotisserie FB: Faro’s Rotisserie

Pepper Lunch #9 & 10, Blk C, Grd Flr tel: Pepperlunch BN FB: Pepper Lunch Brunei Wayback Burgers #10-11, Blk B, Grd Flr, tel: 2230312 IG: @Waybackburgers FB: Wayback-Burgers-Brunei Yugo Desserts #5, Blk E, Grd Flr, tel: 2233358 IG: @Yugo Dessert Cafe FB: Yugo Dessert Café FASHION

Revolution Brunei #10, Blk E, Grd Flr, tel: 2230121 IG: @revobrn FB: Revolution Brunei Melur #4, Blk F, 1st Flr IG: melur_official

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG trail

6. The Letterbox Company 7. The Potters 8. Pepper Lunch 9. Euroclassic

The Letterbox Company #4, Blk E, tel: 7153135 IG: @theletterboxco FB: The Letterbox Co Straits Central Agencies (B) TRAVEL Sdn Bhd #9, Blk F, Grd Flr tel: 2224054 FB: Sca Straits Central Agencies

9 8

Lifestream Wellness Centre #4, Blk C, Grd Flr, tel: 2231178 FB: Lifestream Organic ORGANIC FOOD

Euroclassic #1-2, Blk C, tel: 2431119 IG: euro_classic FB: Euro Classic Collection

Escapee Brunei #7&8, Blk F, 1st Flr, tel: 7252206 IG: @escapeebrunei FB: Escapee Brunei

Alsa Living #1, Blk F, Grd, 1st & 2nd Flr, tel: 237001 IG: alsa_living FB: Alsa Living

Beard & Cutter #5, Blk D, 1st Flr, tel: 8282345 IG: @beardandcutter FB: beardandcutter

The Potters #8, Blk E, Grd Flr, tel: 2424000 IG: thepotters_bn FB: The Potters

Holmes Barbershop #3, Blk F, Grd Flr, tel: 8880022 IG: holmesbarbershop FB: Holmes Barbershop

Wrap in a Box #7, Blk E, Grd Flr, tel: 2230022 IG: wrapinabox FB: Wrap In A Box

WoMen Hair Brunei #1, Blk A, Grd, 1st & 2nd Flr, tel: 2236262 IG: womenhairbrunei

HOME DECOR

CHILDREN

Borneo.Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.Guide

FUN

GROOMING

biG trail

And The Beat Goes On First staged in 2006, the Borneo Jazz Festival originally called the Miri International Jazz Festival - has grown steadily since its inauguration from 2,000 spectators to over 8,000 today. Johan Alias Sarawak Tourism Board

he Borneo Jazz Festival 2016 took place on May 12 and 13, on the grounds of the festival’s home for these past 11 years, the Park City Everly Hotel which overlooks a beach cove on the South China Sea. One of the most anticipated performers this year, saxophonist

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Yuichiro Tokuda and his band Ralyzzdig from Japan, regaled the crowd with a set of smooth jazz that ran from easy-listening soul-inflected numbers to doses of heavy funk. Representing Malaysia & India, A.P.I cleverly used their diversified culture and produced fusion jazz with extraordinary outcome. Raw Earth from Singapore thrilled the crowd with their Old School

music styles from the 50s to 70s such as blues, rock and roll, funk and soul. Succinct yet cutting solos peppered their sets, with insistent rhythmic grooves—both hot and chilled—much to the delight of the audience. O Sisters! from Spain livened up the crowd with their cute and chirpy toe-tapping 20’s swing music and set the mood for the rest of the night.

Manou Gallo Groove Orchestra, an international group of 4 women and 4 men from Ivory Coast, Belgium, France and Denmark and fronted by a cool female bassist Manou Gallo. The group played afro jazz with infectious energy and passion, each member showing mad skills on their respective instruments. The Rad Trads, who are based in New York City, have quickly gained reputation as one of New York’s most entertaining live acts and this was reflected by their performance at the festival on the second night, pumping the crowd with the sounds of New Orleans brass band and R&B grooves, inspired by the popular band Chicago. Master organist, Hin Ee Jeng and Miri-born guitarist, Dean Sim, displayed a well-known soul-funk-jazz with their allMalaysian band Funkatorie. They proved that not only the roots of jazz are strong and far-reaching but that the future of the genre is bright in Malaysia. Klazz Brothers & Cuba Percussion seduced the audience with their distinct and unique sound, uniting the classical European music with swing, merengue and AfroCuban jazz in a contagious way. The festival was first organized with the prime objective of creating another signature event in Sarawak particularly in Miri, to promote the city as a ‘Resort City’. It has since then become a popular addition to the myriad festivals that the East-Malaysian state has to offer. For most, this growth is a reflection of the successful planning and promotion by the Sarawak Tourism Board and an indication of the Malaysian public’s hunger for international music. And on a broader level, it shows another sign of the growing appeal of jazz music in Asia.

on the recent opening and refurbishment of Giant Rimba, Gadong Mall and Tg. Bunut branches with their modern and fresh new look, designed for a greater customer experience. From WaMa Designs and Kenwood Furniture Trading Co.

BiG and BAG Networks Gives Back T

he afternoon started off with a welcome speech by the publisher of BIG, Wan Zainal Shazali, followed by a speech by the CEO of BAG Networks, Haslina Hj Md Taib. During the event, guests were invited to move around the ballroom to view the items for auction on display, which included

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

high-end pre-loved and new fashion pieces and accessories, paintings, tableware, home decoration pieces - all kindly donated by big-hearted individuals, and a pair of branded sunglasses complete with a personally autographed case owned by international movie star Wu Chun.

Borneo Insider’s Guide (BiG) and BAG Networks’ eBunda.org jointly held an auction on 15 April to raise money for two local charities - the Annur Harapan Centre and SCOT, the Society for Community Outreach and Training – that are working to help the underprivileged community in the country. The event was held at the Mutiara Ballroom in the Radisson Hotel. The guest-ofhonour Yang Berhormat Attorney General Datin Seri Paduka Hjh Hayati binti POKSDSP Hj Mohd Salleh supported the occasion with her presence.

BiG

focus

Borneo.Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.Guide

Born to Sing Bridget Ang knew music would be her future since she was eight years old. Her mother would play songs by the power voices like Mariah Carey, Whitney Houston and Celine Dion in the car and she would always sing along for fun.

Borneo.Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.Guide

biG focus

hen Bridget, who goes by her stage name Gette, is not poring over her schoolwork at the Cosmopolitan College of Commerce and Technology where she is currently doing an International Business Course, she is working on her music. This talented youngster doesn’t just sing, she composes songs, plays the guitar and piano, and is determined to learn more musical instruments. At 21, she already has years of experience performing on stage and has won numerous singing trophies since she was 10 years old. Shortly after being crowned the Grand Champion in the ‘Asian Pop Music Festival Contest’ organised by The Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, she signed on as a recording artiste with Fineworks Studio Production and launched her first album ‘One Day At A Time’ in 2006. Since then, other international and national awards came. She clinched the Artist Choice Award of Brunei in 2007 and Kristal Kids Idol of 2008. Two years ago, she started competing in singing contests in other countries as well, bagging two silver medals at The World Championship Of Performing Arts (WCOPA) in Los Angeles, California in 2014, one for the Pop category and another for Original Composition with a Malay song written by local song writer Syarif Baharuddin entitled ‘Kita Berdua’. Her most recent achievement was when she reached the semi-finals in the Trinity Rock & Pop Soul Competition held in Ho Chi Minh, Vietnam last year. Bridget attributes her achievements to the two most important people in her life – her mother and sister. They have been supporting her in this industry from the moment she chose to be a performer. In her words, “They believed in my talent

At 21, she already has years of experience performing on stage and has won numerous singing trophies since she was 10 years old.

and they’re always positive when it comes to [my music].” Bridget’s music idols are not just powerhouses like Celine Dion and Whitney Houston, women who she identifies with in terms of voice range and singing style, she is also a big fan of unique songwriters like Sia and Meghan Trainor. When Bridget is not busy, she would be practising on her guitar or ukulele, trying out new songs

or even writing new songs. She also likes to travel with her family, take photographs, and do what a typical young girl in her age group would do - hang out with her friends, update her Instagram (Gette1012) and Facebook (Gette) and spend time with her cat, Brownie. Bridget is now working hard on composing her own music. Her latest composition ‘Loving you’, written together with her former guitar teacher Darryl Luma-as,

has been sung at several local public events such as the DST Carnival Acoustic session 2015 and the BiG 10th Anniversary Picnic Festival in January this year. This ambitious young lady is not about to sit idle when it comes to her music. She is planning to release an album of her own songs, maybe at the end of this year or early next year. Fingers crossed, we shall be hearing these personal compositions from Gette very soon.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

99% In 2015, 99 percent of IGCSE students were awarded certiﬁcates

A* 90 percent of all IGCSE examinations achieving grades between A* and C

Producing University - Bound Global Citizens Built on a 52 year history of fostering global citizenship and academic distinction, International School Brunei’s IGCSE and International Baccalaureate programs are ﬁrmly established with a record of outstanding achievement.

87% In the International Baccalaureate programmes, 87% of students awarded diplomas, 8 percent more than the world average

ISB is about more than examination results. Parents and Students choose us because: • of the way we build conﬁdence, • of how we nurture and strengthen character • of the many opportunities we open up networks of lifelong bonds and global citizenship • of our new multi-million dollar state-of-the-art campus • of our modern home-away-from-home residence with 160 beds, full boarding facilities

Jln Utama Salambigar, Kampung Sungai Hanching, Berakas B, BC2115, Negara Brunei Darussalam +673 233 0608

enquiries@ac.isb.edu.bn

www.isb.edu.bn

Can you tell us a little about Majlis Kesejahteraan Masyarakat (MKM), how did the organisation come to be? MKM was first initiated by the government through the Community Development Department of Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, and was registered at the Registry of Society in December 2009. At that time we covered the disabled, children, all the vulnerable groups, until we started asking ourselves: if we try and help everybody, do we have the resources or the manpower to accomplish that? We had to start limiting ourselves, and that’s when we started to prioritise children and the impoverished. How are these problems brought to MKM’s attention? We serve pro bono legal services and run a Legal and Advisory Clinic, which is open every Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm at the office of Yusof Halim & Partners, and our doors are open for people seeking general aid or in need of legal services. Once they attend the clinic, we register them into our ledger of case files, this is so we can keep records of every family or individual who we provide aid to, and from then on a member of MKM will investigate the situation. What do you consider to be the most challenging aspect about providing aid to the needy in Brunei? One of the biggest challenges for any organization such as ours is getting the money. In Brunei, the business community is small, so everyone goes to the same companies for donations. And it’s hard to raise enough money with fundraisers. We were able to raise some funds

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Help ng

Hands and Giving Hearts

It takes hard work, dedication and a whole lot of heart to run Majlis Kesejahteraan Masyarakat (Social Welfare Council). In this issue of BiG magazine we sit down with the president of MKM, Datin Paduka Hjh Intan Hj Mohd Kassim, to find out more about the charity organisation and her team’s Herculean efforts in providing aid to the needy. Intan Abu Daniel

at a fund-raising event that we hosted in late 2014, and being the beneficiary of events like the BiG 10 Festival. But still, money is the biggest challenge. Another challenge is identifying the needy from the lazy. That’s why investigating each case that is brought to us is very necessary, and for that, I’m lucky to have such dedicated members in MKM, because you need to have a lot of initiative to go and visit these houses, check on them, to see if they really need it or if they’re looking for hand-outs.

Novri Rinaldi What drives you to run MKM with such commitment over the years? I suppose one reason why I’m able to is that I have the time, as I’m not in full-time employment myself. I’m not active in other organizations because I choose not to be. If I do more, I won’t have time to execute the work I should do for MKM. Another reason is that, even though there are days where I am just so tired that I feel tempted to leave, when you visit all these people and you learn about them and get to know them, you just

The driving force for me is seeing the people we have helped smiling, getting better. Maybe we are not legally bound, but morally, we need to help them. don’t have the heart to leave. The driving force for me is to see people smiling, getting better. They say thank you. How can I leave them? Maybe we are not legally bound, but morally, we need to help them. Allah puts you in a better position from them, so whatever you do, you must share.

To find out how you can donate, support or volunteer with MKM, visit their website www.mkmbrunei.com or call them at (673) 877 0312 or (673) 887 0658. The Legal and Advisory Clinic is open every Wednesday from 7pm to 9pm at Yusof Halim & Partners, Advocates & Solicitors (#15, BT Hj Uthman Complex, Kg Jaya Setia, Berakas, BSB).

BiG talk

Borneo.Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.Guide

biG buzz

A Royal Day Out Hanafi Salam

t was a balmy afternoon at the Jerudong Polo Club on 17 April, a perfect day for a royal event. In this case, it was the Charity Polo Day, a fundraising event organised by His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen and Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah in collaboration with Cityneon. Hundreds swarmed the place to stroll around the grounds, check out the participating vendors’ stalls, shop for knick-knacks and catch the nail-biting Polo match that was playing out on the field.

BiG buzz

Fans of the Royal Highnesses had plenty to swoon about as the prince took charge of the green Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles team and the princess took the lead for The Simpsons team, all dressed in yellow. It was definitely girl power that ruled in the end when The Simpsons won the tournament. The event raised a total of BND$53,122, for Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam where Her Royal Highness Princess ‘Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah serves as chairperson of the Board of Trustees.

Pusat Ehsan is a non-profit organisation that provides special education, training, care and rehabilitation for individuals with special needs. To find out how you can help, contact them at: Spg 66-38-60, Kg Bengkurong BF1920, Brunei Tel: (673) 265 5245 Website: www.pusatehsan.org.bn

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG buzz

A Clear White Night Nearly 30 years ago, the Diner En Blanc was launched by Francois Pasquier with a group of friends, and the tradition of divine al-fresco dining while clad in white has continued until today throughout the world. This was the inspiration behind Alliance Francaise and the The Collective Art Events’ special pop up dinner during the Francophonie Week 2016 on March 18. Mujahid Johar

group of people dressed in their best whites sat down at a long table and prepared themselves for a feast under the stars. The venue was the Royal Wharf Waterfront, which afforded the diners a view of Brunei’s iconic water village. A sumptuous spread was served, starting with an appetizer of Plum Tomato and European Cheese Salad with Homemade Pickles prepared by the executive chef of Radisson Hotel, followed by a main course of Green Tea and Citrus Poached Salmon Fillets served

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

with pilaf-style Saskatchewan Wild Rice and a classic béchamel sauce prepared by Jason Lew, the executive chef of The Energy Kitchen, assisted by Caffé Verve. The feast ended with a dessert of Lemon Glazed French Cruller (pâte à choux) with Custard Creme, Brown Sugar and Cinnamon Toasts Nuts and Maple Liquid Spheres prepared by Fri Serbini, the pattisier of Vanilla Kitchen. The diners were also treated to a serenade by classical vocalist Melanie Gall.

For updates on The Collective’s future events and pop-up dinners, follow them on Instagram @thecollectiveartevents or visit their website: www.thecollectiveartevents.com.

biG buzz

A Worldly Feast at the International Food Fair A foodie experience to end all foodie experiences in Brunei, the International Food Fair organised by the International Women’s Club of Brunei Darussalam (IWCB) in collaboration with the Royal Brunei Recreation Club (RBRC) and The Collective Art Events, was a cultural gastronomic feast for the senses. The one-day event held on May 15 the RBRC

showcased food and beverages from all over the world. Dishes from Bangladesh, Thailand, Pakistan, Indonesia, Great Britain, South Korea, Indonesia and others were in the spotlight as hundreds of visitors turned up ready for a lesson and sampling of foods from around the world. Mouth-watering dishes like Amok Trei from Cambodia,

vegetable spring rolls from Thailand, grilled chicken and flatbreads from Pakistan, sushi from Japan prepared by Kitaro Lodge, and signature dishes Ayam Kremes and Dendeng from Indonesia were all on display atop beautifully designed surfaces, each adorned with the flag of their home country. Some of these delightful delicacies aren’t available in Brunei, making it a real treat for the visitors. Proceeds from the food fair will be used for a sungkai event during the month of Ramadan for the orphans in the BruneiMuara District. The event was launched by Ungku Datin Hjh Fanzah Hj Oman, the President of the IWCB, Dyna Tan, Honorary Vice President of IWCB and the Spouse of the Cambodian Ambassador to BruneI Darussalam and Dean of Diplomatic Corps.

Showcasing Emerging Talents A new frontrunner on the local art scene, the Creative Space Art Gallery opened its doors to the public with three events to introduce the locals to some of Brunei’s most talented and innovative artists. Opened in April this year, the EMERGE Exhibition, curated by Hj Osman Mohammad, the Managing Director of the gallery, with the assistance of

Khairul Ibrahim and Osveanne Osman, featured nine artists who contributed nineteen pieces of artworks. The month-long exhibition included two collaborative events: the EMERGE market, where a number of local vendors sold or introduced their products to the public, and the ‘BIG ART JAM’ – a five-hour session of art collaborations between the public

and the EMERGE artists, allowing artistic expression to go wild on canvas.

Find out what other creative exhibitions are in store at the Creative Space, check out: Creative Space Art Gallery #6B, 1st Flr, Blk B, Sengkurong Shopping Centre, Brunei Darussalam Tel: (673) 887 8993 Email: creativespacebn@gmail.com Instagram: @creative.space.brunei

She Runs for a Good Cause Unity and sisterhood permeated the parking lot of Fitness Zone Serusop on May 15, as women clad in uniform pink-and-white t-shirts prepared for a 3.7km and 5km race. She Runs 2016, the follow-up to the popular all-women charity run last year organized by Fitness Zone, had 2,000 participants running together to send a message of women empowerment, sisterhood and charity. The race was flagged off by Wu Chun and the guest of honour, Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade., who also delivered a sabda to the participants. Winners won air tickets sponsored by Royal Brunei Airlines, Fitness Zone memberships and prizes from Under Armour sportswear. There were also performances by local artistes and games with great prizes. Proceeds from She Runs 2016 were donated to the YASKA (Yayasan Kanser Kanak-Kanak – to provide support to children diagnosed with cancer) and SOBD (Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam).

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Mum’s Best Friend

Pauline Chan

Let’s be frank. Busy mothers with kids don’t have a lot of time for fancy motor language and its technical jargons and numerous statistics, we just want a protective vehicle that does the job of transporting our family safely with with all our accompanying carry-ons, and at the same time, allow us mamas to look good in it. It seems like Volkwagen has the right idea with their new Sportsvan. I’m going to take a look at this new compact MPV, deconstruct it for the mother behind the wheel and get to the highlights that matter to us most.

Compact but spacious On the surface, the Sportsvan looks really sporty, with its sharply contoured styling, large 17-inch alloy wheels and a black painted front grille with chrome trim. Nice. Now let’s get inside the car. It’s easy to get into the vehicle, thanks to the wide-opening doors and elevated seats, and that should make it easier too if you want to fix a child seat onto the ISOFIX child seat mounting points. The entire car has a spacious feel, thanks to the extended wheelbase, the rear seat passengers can enjoy a generous amount of leg space. Six-footers will find it comfortable at the back even with a fellow six-footer in the front seat. If you are familiar with the VW Golf, the Sportsvan is 83mm longer, 126mm taller and marginally (8mm) wider than that.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Cargo capacity with the rear bench seat in its standard position is fine for a trip to the store. To get more space in the luggage compartment, you can slide the rear seats further up to their front-most positions. But fold the rear seats down and you’ll get a maximum storage of 1,520 litres of cargo space. How big is that you ask? Mighty big.

It’s built for kids too Kids in the back will find great usage of the storage pockets and folding tables integrated into the backs of the front seats. There are three additional cupholders in the rear centre armrest that folds up. If you need to provide some audio entertainment for the kids, the standard touch-screen audio system with CD player, SD memory card slot and 8 speakers should do the job.

Safety features for driver and passengers Now for the things that make the Sportsvan a mum’s best friend, the safety features. The Sportsvan packs a plethora of safety measures. The car is equipped with ESP (electronic stabilization programme); a multi-collision brake system that prevents the risk of secondary collisions in the event of a rear-end collision; safetyoptimised head restraints in front that protects against whiplash injury and seven airbags – airbags for driver and front passenger including one to protect the driver’s knees, and curtain airbag system for front and rear passengers including side airbags at the front. Another important safety highlight is the Proactive Occupant Protection System. If the system detects a potential accident situation such as the initiation of hard braking, the seatbelts of the driver and front passengers are automatically tensioned and the windows and sliding roof will close.

The Sportsvan has a range of BlueMotion Technology efficiency improvement measures that gives this 1.4-litre TSI engine with 16 valves an impressive 200Nm of torque from only 2,400 rpm but fuel consumption remains low at just 5.4 litres/ 100km. Well, these are just numbers for you to regurgitate but essentially it’s fuel saving and that means, money saving too. And that is two thumbs up from us!

www.volkswagen.com.bn

made in Borneo

A Girl & Her Jewellery Yusrina Abdullah is not just a jewellery designer. As she hand makes all her jewellery, she packs a good amount of torching, cutting, hammering and filing in crafting her creations. This 28-year old metalsmith and designer taught herself the art of jewellery-making through online lessons, and made her first piece in 2012 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a beaded wrap bracelet using linen cord and gold beads.

ver the years, Yusrina has progressed to more complicated styles using more varieties of materials, now the majority of her jewellery is made with sterling silver and semi precious stones, and she even reworks vintage pieces from the 50s and 70s, upcycling them into modern wearable pieces. Yusrina had always wanted to be her own boss. After she completed her schooling at a business college, she was sure that she wanted to start a business and experimented with a few ideas before she decided on jewellery design, a career she stumbled upon by chance

Borneo.Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.Guide

when she was shopping online. She came across a bracelet that looked like it was easy to make. Although she didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t think she had the skills, passion or even interest in making jewellery, she still tried her hand at it and after that, she knew that she has found her calling. Watching Yusrina tease a fine piece of wire at her worktop, surrounded by metal tools and sparkly stones, one realises that there is a certain advantage in having nimble fingers, good eyesight and concentration to create her delicate and dainty pieces. She draws inspiration from the simplest of things. Using a combination of mixed metals - though

Pauline Chan

1,2&6. Yusrina tinkering at her work station 3. Favourite cuff bangle inspired by Brunei’s flora and fauna 4. The first piece Yusrina made in 2012 5. Jewellery in different stages of work-in-progress

sterling silver is her favourite vintage crystals, semi-precious and raw stones, and fresh water pearls, she creates pieces that can be worn on their own or layered with other jewellery. She admits that she doesn’t have a design process and she doesn’t draw either, so she works with ideas as they come and fabricates the pieces through trial and error. Her favourite piece is a cuff bangle she made last year for her

submission in the 2015 Creative Jewellery ASEAN Competition that was held in conjunction with the 56th Bangkok Gems & Jewellery Fair. Yusrina explained that the piece was inspired by Brunei’s flora and fauna and took over a month to complete. “I wanted to visually create my interpretation of unexpected treasures in Brunei by doing a twigs and branches concept with raw black diamonds on the twigs.

Natural twigs were hand casted into solid sterling silver using the lost wax casting method and precious metal clay was used as a base to hold the raw black diamonds in place.” Yusrina says her jewellery is for women of all ages and all walks of life. She has done something for a baby and for someone in her eighties, who wore the wrap bracelet from her first design. “I’d like to believe that

I have something for everyone whether it is a simple everyday jewellery or a bridal statement piece. A woman who wears Enya Bijoux is independent, she values and appreciates handmade things and has a sentimental side to her, yet she is independent and empowered. Although I have timeless staples like the initials bracelets and personalised jewellery, I don’t stick to one type of jewellery. I would like them to suit women of all ages.” Yusrina is now working on new ideas using rose gold and moonstones. She thinks rose gold is a ladylike colour which people will either love or hate, but she believes it works well with gold and silver and the colour itself is timeless, so it will be around for many years to come. A brick and mortar store is Yusrina’s ultimate dream, with a retail front and a back studio. She recently moved out of her home studio into The Collective’s Makerspace in Batu Bersurat. At the moment she sells her jewellery on Instagram, Facebook, during festivals and pop-up events. She would love to see her brand being carried by some of the largest multi-label retailers around the world.

Instagram: @EnyaBijoux Website: www.enyabijoux.com Email: yusrina.a@gmail.com Tel: (673) 711 1427

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Tribal Stove

Caffé Verve

10 Block H Jalan Borneo (across the road from main entrance of Hilton Hotel) 93100 Kuching Tel: (6082) 234 873 - restaurant, (6082) 413 313 - office Opening hours: Monday-Saturday, 11.30am-10.30pm Heidi Munan

#6A, Spg 68, Jln Batu Bersurat, Bandar Seri Begawan Tel: (673) 875 7382, IG: vervespresso Open: Tuesday to Sunday, 7am-midnight Mondays open for coffee only. Pauline Chan

roccoli on pizza? My kids may balk at this frivolous addition to a child’s favourite meal but I certainly enjoyed my slice of Broccoli and Blue Cheese pizza from Caffé Verve. Verve has a selection of freshly-made pastas which you can have with a variety of sauces like the usual arrabiata, pomodoro, carbonara or you can choose to have it with their specialties such as duck ragu, al funghi or salmon al fredo. Their pizzas run from the simple margherita to the more intriguing ones with ingredient combinations such as brie and onion jam. When you’re done with the Italian fare, check out their special onlyfrom-Verve sweet creations like lemon pie, blueberry cheesecake pie or cinnamon streusel banana cake at the cool dessert display.

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Now, since this a café, you will certainly get an array of coffee. Their range of espressos and pourovers is something you may want to ponder on. It’s not just lattes and cappuccinos, or macchiatos and ristrettos, you can sit at the Barista Corner and let the resident barista concoct a specialty drink for you from the Barista Corner Menu. You can ask them about their specialty beans with fruity undertones, discuss your preferences and have some fun creating your perfect brew, and if Daniel the owner is there, you can have a conversation about coffee beans and pick up a few tips about making a good cup of coffee too. One more thing – the cool music here is played on a turntable provided by DIG Records and there is a selection of vinyl records and turntables displayed on a shelf at the back of the café, if you wish to purchase any of them, just ask the counter staff for assistance.

The B Side Cafe Lot 21, Ground Floor, Lido Plaza Penampang, Sabah Tel: (6088 715 453) Opening hours: Tuesday to Friday, 10am-11pm / Saturday and Sunday, 9am-midnight Pamela Fletcher

he B Side Café is a modest eatery that is one part café, one part art gallery. The bare whitewash walls display the works of local artists while the seating is a mix of tables and chairs, bar stools and a high table in the middle with concrete seating along the walls. The small space gets a lift from the café’s high ceiling adorned with bare bulbs dangling from a mesh of wires.

ribal Stove aims to bring a slice of Bario - the Central Borneo Highlands - to Kuching. The food is decidedly tribal: the staple is Bario Rice, known throughout Sarawak for its fragrance and flavour. Jungle and garden leaves form an important part of the cuisine, together with fish prepared in a number of ‘highland’ ways, chicken cooked in bamboo and the like. The menu is mainly captioned in Kelabit, with translations or descriptions for the uninitiated. Tribal Stove serves no pork. Also sold here is equally traditional tribal rice wine. Highland folk living in Kuching congregate here for a ‘slice of home’. For visitors, Tribal Stove is within easy walking distance of the major hotels if they wish to try something different once in a while. Dry-crumbled fish with pumpkin leaf anyone?

The menu is kept simple but enough to whet the appetite with its fusion of western and Asian fare. The breakfast menu which runs throughout the day is a favourite. The Eggs Benedict and scrambled eggs with bacon served with a side of fresh salad were delicious while the Shakshouka, a dish of sausages in a spicy tomato sauce served with just rye bread, really turned on the heat. For the more adventurous taste buds, there’s bulgogi burger and pasta with soft shell crab and kim chi in the lunch menu set amongst a selection of traditional western staples. With a barista on duty, you can expect some pretty good coffee. Try the Affogato with a twist – coffee beans added for an extra crunch. The B Side Café brings a new appreciation for café and coffee culture in a very traditional neighbourhood. Its blend of simple and easy recipes with artsy décor is a refreshing change and one that I’m sure will continue to evolve to please its expanding list of loyal customers.

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in her the right attitude to life: work hard, be considerate to others and have respect for her elders and herself. The great teamwork fostered at CBTL Supa Save Seria has also contributed to her win. It was tricky coming up with the right mix ratios for her drink recipes but her team was there to help her, and she credits her teachers Fajar Irianto Sihombing and Mohamad Syukri bin Mohamad Rosli for their guidance. To prepare for her competition in Colombo this July, she is going to focus on her presentation, “There is still more room for improvement. I would like to polish, if possible, perfect my practical presentation.” Nur Amalina is enjoying her time at CBTL and revealed that she has learnt much more than brewing coffee, most of all, friendship, honesty, time-

The Winning Brew The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Brunei had a mission – to find the 2016 Brunei Barista Champion from among their 12 CBTL branches who will represent Brunei in the Asia Pacific level CBTL competition this July in Colombo, Sri Lanka. The search for the top barista began in April this year and the contest was open to all outlet managers and baristas employed fulltime at The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf in Brunei. Through a process of elimination, they narrowed the number to just five contestants, who battled for the top prize on May 21 at the Atrium in Times Square Shopping Centre.

uring the competition, all the contestants were judged on three types of beverage – a single espresso, single cappuccino and their own signature beverage, either espresso or tea-based – and they only had 15 minutes to complete all of them. One by one, the contestants went on stage to work their magic and impress the judges while their supporters cheered below. In the end, the moment of triumph and glory belonged to Nur Amalina bte Mohaimin from CBTL Supa Save Seria.

21 year-old Nur Amalina has been working at CBTL for seven months. Led by her love for coffee, curiosity and determination to make an excellent cup of coffee, she decided to make a career out of it. This big sister to two younger siblings studied in St. James’s School in Kuala Belait and has a Diploma in Computer Networking Engineering from the Jefri Bolkiah Engineering College. Trending online topics such as Latte Art attracted Nur Amalina to the coffee culture and convinced her that her

dream job is to be a barista. She believes that her win is a result of having the right attitude and solid support from the people who cares. She believes her parents have instilled

efficiency, courage and responsibility. When asked what she hopes to be in five year’s time, she said with genuine humility and grace, “To become better than who I am now and make my parents proud of me.”

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

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Wrapped With Love Wraps, burritos or spring rolls, these rolled-up parcels are one of the easiest things you can have while on the run (hopefully not from the law), on a skateboard or while biking around town. They’re so versatile too, make it an appetizer or main meal, a snack or picnic food, and they are the perfect party food.

raps are deliciously trendy in Brunei, besides being easy to handle. The Mexicans have their burritos and they use a flatbread made from corn, flour or wheat to wrap up the filling. In the Middle East, the wrap is a pita bread filled with sliced or chunks of roasted meat and a variety of fresh vegetables. You can make it a no-guilt vegetarian meal or taint it with juicy grilled or roasted meat, or use up any leftovers from the night before. No matter how you have it, it is super easy to make and you won’t end up with too many dishes to wash.

Casbah London Kebab (5 branches) #204, Spg 210, Kg Lambak, Jln Berakas Tel: 880 3183 (call for other branches) Amsarra Shawarma and Espresso #31, Grd Flr, Airport Mall Kg Jaya Setia, BSB Pan & Wok #28A, Frd Flr, Airport Mall Kg Jaya Setia, BSB Tel: 234 2836 Sugar & Spice Arabic Food #B1, Grd Flr, Purnama Complex, Kiulap Tel: 223 0393 48

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Serving Brunei the Best Kebabs since 1999 Succulent kebab dishes grilled to perfection and served with homemade sauces and salad. Taste the Middle East at Casbah London Kebab, Bruneiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s favourite purveyor of spitted meat since 1999.

BERAKAS BRANCH No. 204, Simpang 210, Kampong Lambak, Jalan Berakas, P.O Box 865, MPC BB3577 Tel: 673 880 3183

NEW BERAKAS BRANCH No. 9 Ground Floor, Block A, Complex Lambak, Spg 200, Jln Berakas, Negara Brunei Darussalam Tel: 673 234 0559

SENGKURONG BRANCH Unit No. 5, Ground Floor, Lot No. 34217, Kampong Sengkurong, Negara Brunei Darussalam Tel: 673 267 6111

TIMES SQUARE BRANCH G2A, 13-29, Jalan Berakas Kg. Jaya Setia, Mukim Berakas BS2713 Negara Brunei Darussalam Tel: 673 234 3001

KB BRANCH Lot 6344, Unit 3, Bangunan Wisma Yakin, Jalan Jaya Negara, Kuala Belait Tel: 673 333 7611

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BELLO’S

FAMOUS

FIVE As Bello Café celebrates its 5th anniversary this September, we take a trip down memory lane and see how this beautiful café became one of the most popular dining locations in the city.

he owner of Bello, Mei Law, wanted a place that people could take their time to enjoy tasty, unpretentious and affordable food in an environment that feels cosy like home. After the success of the first Bello café in Seri-Qlap Mall, she opened a branch at the Design & Technology building in Anggerek Desa. Mei designed the entire establishment on her own and took pains to ensure every aspect of the café - from the artistic teaspoons and stylish furniture, to the soft

Chocolate Lava Pudding A freshly baked confection that when cut opened, unveils a stream of warm liquid chocolate that flows out to meet and mingle with a scoop of creamy vanilla ice cream on the side. Definitely Bello’s best dessert which has competitors trailing at its heels.

lighting and jazzy music that oozes from the chic speakers - is thoughtfully chosen to give the place the right feel and ambience for a good meal and good conversation. Mei believes that a restaurant should have at least one signature dish with an addictive edge to keep customers coming back again. In Bello’s case, they have a handful of star-studded offerings that are so well known around town that there is an instant association of the dish with Bello whenever it is mentioned.

Indulge or go waistlineconscious? What to eat at Bello’s? Here our Editor’s picks for breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Top 5 Bello Stars

Eat, Drink and Be Merry Breakfast Eggs Supreme with avocado mash, smoked salmon and tomato salsa and toast Lunch Swiss Burger, washed down with an iced Lychee Lemongrass, and Cranberry Crumble with ice cream

Swiss Burger This is not your ordinary size burger and it is perfect for a hungry chap who will appreciate the larger freshly made and well-seasoned beef patty, snuggling within a sesame seed bun with sautéed fresh mushrooms, three types of melted gourmet cheeses, lettuce leaves and a dollop of Bello’s special pesto mayo.

Black Galaxy

Beef Rendang

lean, mean and stay trim

A sweet and cool creation that’s uniquely Bello’s, the Black Galaxy is made with grass jelly, crushed ice, milk and gula melaka. Add a shot of espresso to Black Galaxy and you’ll get a caffeinated version - the Iced Jelloffee.

Dinner Fresh mushroom soup, Winter Comfort Salad and Sticky Date Pudding

The spicy beef stew is cooked to tender perfection in thick red gravy. The beef chunks are full of flavour and goes in harmony with pickled cucumber that comes with it and fragrant pandan rice topped with a sunny-side up egg.

Breakfast Scrambled eggs and sautéed mushroom in a warmed pita bread Lunch Pesto Fish - pan grilled salmon seasoned in pesto and served with salad Dinner Spring Fever Salad fresh greens, smoked salmon and country artichoke, succulent olives and feta cheese tossed in a special Bello vinaigrette

5 Bello Special Salad Amongst their menu of salads, this one is a hit with their regular diners. Fresh greens, tomatoes and avocado are joined by succulent prawns, chopped boiled egg and crunchy sweet corn, then flavoured with a drizzling of their very own pesto vinaigrette, resulting in an attractive and healthy main course.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

BiG snapshot This photo shows a noodle seller frying a plate of noodles at her stall on the first floor of the KB Market in Kuala Belait. She serves breakfast to the locals every morning from 4am to 10am. Abby Lim

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Brunei

Gratitude Café Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 234 1123)

Guidelines: The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked. In Brunei, all restaurants are closed between 12 noon and 2 pm on Fridays.

Our Picks Ranging from quick & easy meals to lobster & caviar, these are our favourite haunts around town! Amulya This North Indian restaurant serves our favourite briyani in town. #3&4 Grd Flr Jln Setia Square Berakas, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 9230) Chop Jing Chew Freshly made Roti Kahwin perfectly paired with a teh tarik 10 Spg 5 Jln Gadong, Kg Menglait (673 242 4132) Gwad Basha Arabian Restaurant Arabic cuisine at its finest #1A&1B Heng Thai Property Centre Spg 22 Jln Dato Ratna, Kiarong (673 245 0009) Restoran Makan & Soto Rosmini Our favourite soto hang-out 1 Spg 15, Jln Gadong (673 871 9946) Mei Kong Coffee Shop A trip to Brunei isn’t complete without sampling their famous kolo mee 108 Jln Permancha, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 0688)

Kaizen Sushi served fresh on your table plus a variety of other Japanese cuisine Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 6336) – Call for other branches Pondok Sari Wangi Restaurant Serving the best of Indonesian cuisine 12-13 1st Flr Blk A Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 244 5043) – Call for other branches Thien Thien Restaurant Purveyors of arguably the best Nasi Ayam in town 10 Grd Flr Mas Panchawarna Complex (673 222 2435) – Call for other branches Ximply Chriz Café Divine desserts, great coffee and scrumptious meals 8 Blk B Regent Square, Kiulap (673 223 4918) Taste of Asia Vietnamese pho, Thai tom yam, Japanese sushi, Korean kimchi and Bruneian ambuyat – this list covers most of our favourite Asian delights. Ahan Thai 10 Blk B Abd Razak Complex, Gadong (673 245 2852)

Kapra Coffee It seemed like only a matter of time before Brunei’s first coffee roaster would pop up on the grid. Making a timely entrance is Kapra - part coffeehouse, part roaster, all good coffee. Coffee beans are roasted in a room separated from the coffeehouse by a glass wall, and the interior is minimally outfitted with one long communal table, choice desserts and coffee beans and accessories for sale on display. This is the place to get your coffee nerd on. #26 Grd For Blk C Spg 440, Jln Muara (673 234 5656)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

All Seasons Restaurant 17 1st Flr Times Square Shopping Centre, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 8068) Aminah Arif 2 & 3 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 6198) – Call for other branches Anjung Layar Luncur (Nur Wanita Serasa Branch) Simpang 287, Pantai Serasa (673 277 1879) Axtivo Restaurant Spg 13 Hj Uthman Complex, Berakas (673 233 5642) Babu’s Kitchen C44 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Kg Menglait (673 245 7868) Bali Pit-Stop 15 &16, Spg 150 Grd Floor, Block A Bangunan Habza, Kuilap (673 720 9992) Chatterbox Kopitiam 2 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbullah 2, Gadong (673 820 1212) G S Seafood Restaurant Sri Aman Complex, Tutong (673 422 1882) Golden Leaf Coffee House Blk 1 Grd Flr PAP Hjh Norain Building, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 0422)

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GALLERY

Kaka Restaurant 2 & 3 Spg 100 Jln Jerudong (673 267 2333) Lee Loi Fatt Blk A #7 Grd Flr Serusop Complex, Kg Delima Satu (673 234 2384) – Call for other branches MY Favoureat Restaurant 9 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 9410) MyTown Eating House Grd Flr The Crown Princess Complex, Jalan Tutong (673 224 1880) Nyonya 3 Grd Flr Bgn Hasbollah, Gadong (673 244 7090) Old Time Kopitiam G2 Grd Flr Bgn Hj Ibrahim, Kg Menglait (673 244 8282) Pho Real 1st Flr Times Square Food Court, Kg Jaya Setia Rice Bowl 72 T.C.Y Building, Batu Bersurat (673 863 0665) Sapphira Cake House 3 Grd Flr Seri Anigma, Kiulap (673 223 2021) Seasons Restaurant Lvl 2 The Centrepoint, Gadong (673 242 2291) Seaworld Neptune 8 Spg 791, Jerudong (673 261 2613) Shikai 1 & 2 Blk E Grd Flr Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat

Bello Café ‘Bello’, which is Italian for ‘beautiful’, is certainly the right name for this elegantly designed café with their beautifully-styled food. Offering a tasty range of snacks, desserts, western and local main dishes, they are famed for their Swiss Burger and Chocolate Lava Pudding. OPEN DAILY Mon-Fri 7.30am-10pm, Sat 7.30am-11pm, Sun 8am-10pm; L1/12 Seri Kiulap Mall, KIULAP (673 223 3989) Casbah London Kebab Pick lamb, chicken, beef or fish and have it dressed and wrapped your way – tikka, kebab, doner or shawarma style! A quick and deliciously meaty meal for hungry diners on the go. OPEN DAILY ; #G2a Grd Flr Times Square Complex, KG JAYA SETIA (673 234 3001) (Times Square Branch) or #204 Spg 210 Kg Lambak, JLN BERAKAS (673 880 3183) – Call for other branches Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf Despite new coffee shops popping up around town, the Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf undoubtedly remains the most popular purveyor of caffeine in Brunei with over five branches throughout the country. This global coffee chain continues brewing their specialty coffee for the masses, including their ever-popular Ice-Blended coffee drinks. OPEN DAILY 8am-11pm; 36 & 37 Maya Puri Building, JLN SULTAN (673 222 0589) or #116A 1st Flr The Mall, GADONG (673 245 7460) – Call for other branches Deals This modern, refreshing and contemporary restaurant offers an extensive menu. Enjoy a gastronomic experience featuring new dishes such as roasted slipper lobster with black pepper and roasted garlic butter, Grilled Australian ribeye and many more popular dishes. OPEN 7pm onwards (Mon-Sat), closed on Sundays and public holidays; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 224 4272)

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GALLERY

Tasek Brasserie A perfect spot to dine with family and friends in the heart of the city, Tasek Brasserie provides casual dining in a relaxed atmosphere. Customers can enjoy light snacks and a cool mocktail while lounging at the outdoor pool, or dine on the variety of cuisine from their ala carte menu or sumptuous buffets. OPEN DAILY 6am-6pm; Radisson Hotel Jln Tasek, BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (673 224 4272) TeaBox Selling specialised teas since they first opened in 2006, this is a One-Stop Drink Kiosk that offers a variety of flavoured teas and other types of drinks for customers on the go. They also offer healthy snacks such as tortillas and sandwiches, and desserts such as puddings, cheesecakes and cookies. Available in three outlets: Giant Tasek Rimba, The Mall Gadong and Jaya Centrepoint Foodcourt.

Taty’s Café A9 Grd Flr Muara Centre, Muara Town Spicy Curry & Wraps From Arabic to Indian cuisine, check out these restaurants if you like a spicy kick to your meals Amsarra Shawarma & Espresso Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia

Sameer Restaurant & Catering G1 Grd Flr Sg Akar Sentral, Berakas (673 233 6613) The Wrap #2 Jerudong Park Food Court, Jerudong Zaika Restaurant A4 Lot 308 Bgn Maju Jln Bunga Raya, Kuala Belait (673 334 7430)

Bombay Palace Restaurant #9 Grd & 1st Flr Blk B Bgn Pg Mainuddin & Anak2, Batu Bersurat (673 242 7313)

Western Food Italian pizzas, American steaks and burgers, British cottage pies – we list down the restaurants that serve the best from the west

Delhi Darbar Restaurant & Catering Spg 38 Jln Jerudong (673 267 2826)

Bistro Chez Fio 13 Grd Flr Blk A Q-Lap Complex, Kg Kiulap (673 223 4933)

Le Taj 2-3 2nd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 223 8996)

Buccaneer Steak House 92-93 (B) 94 Grd Flr Jln McKerron, Kuala Belait (673 333 0406)

Lotus Family Restaurant 27B Grd Flr Delima Jaya Complex, Berakas (673 234 2049) Rajah’s Restaurant 3 Grd Flr Blk A Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 0379) Saffron Restaurant 8 Blk C Shakirin Complex, Kiulap (673 223 5888)

Kofta Diva Forget about coffee, let’s give tea some love here. And we’re not talking about any old type of tea, we’re talking original Thai Tea – creamy, sweet, delicious beverages that’s just better than the average Lipton. So far, one of the best purveyors of this spiced tea wonder is Kofta Diva, who serves up a mean iced Thai Red or Thai Green Tea in a big plastic bag with a straw in it, which is more appealing than it sounds. Aside from their teas, Kofta Diva also offers Nasi Abuk and a variety of Frites: cups of fries doused in your choice of sauce Jalapeno Cheese, Bolognaise and BBQ) and optional toppings such as cheddar cheese, tuna or beef. Kofta Diva Stall, Spg 261 Jln Pasir Berakas Kg Lambak Kanan, BSB Tel: (673) 889 3422

De’ Olde Cottage 2 Grd Flr Blk C Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 242 6982)

Din’s Bistro Charcoal BBQ & Grill 8 Blk E Grd Flr Restaurant Abd Razak Complex, Grd Flr Le Gallery Suites Hotel, Gadong Jln Tutong (673 222 1171) – (673 873 1154) Call for other branches Element Fusion Cheezbox Café #8&9 Blk A 1st Flr Gadong External Café Ramp A The Mall, Central, Kg Menglait Gadong (673 242 5506) (673 717 2992) Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 2368) – Call for other branches

Fish & Co 18 & 19 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 239 2555)

OPEN DAILY 10am-10pm; Grd Flr Jaya Centrepoint Foodcourt, GADONG (673 245 0436) – call for other branches SCR Express Citis Square The latest avatar of one of the oldest food franchises in Brunei, this outlet can accommodate over a hundred patrons in three seating areas: the main dining area, the outdoor balcony and the lobby. The ala carte menu caters to the gastronomic delights of patrons looking for great food at great prices coupled with good service, with over a hundred different types of dishes to choose from. The restaurant is currently holding a promotion: offering delicious cakes free of charge for any private function held at the lobby area.

Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches

OPEN DAILY 7.30am-10pm; #20&21, 1st Flr, Citis Square, KG JAYA SETIA (673 718 0315/233 9391) – call for other branches

Fratini’s Restaurant #1 Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 245 1200) – Call for other branches

Wayback Burgers A fast-food franchise from the US, Wayback Burgers sells the iconic American meal: burgers and fries, and a thick milkshake to wash it down. Wayback offers a range of fresh, never frozen burgers from the Philly burger to the Patty Melt to the gigantic Triple Triple. There are also grilled chicken burgers, hot dogs and even salads to choose from.

Home Kitchen by Tree-Bit Café D8 & D9 Lot 11620 Grd Flr Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata (673 242 9366) Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 899 7333)

OPEN DAILY 10am-10pm; #B10-11 Blk B Setia Kenangan II, KG KIULAP (673 223 0312)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG listings

The Krema Coffee A café was always in the works, but The Krema started out as a coffee delivery service on Instagram to give the public a taste of what they had to offer. It was a solid idea, as The Krema had fans way before they had their soft opening back in May. A brick-exposed wall, dark wood flooring and marble counters bring to mind an exclusive gentleman’s barbershop. Their menu is still limited, with only one main dish (tasty Fish and Chips), but you didn’t come to The Krema to eat.The central bar where hipster baristas deftly brew coffee is aptly positioned as this is the centerpiece of The Krema and the reason why you came: for a cup of their rich, full-bodied coffee. #D31 Lim Eng Ming Complex Blk D, Kg Kiulap Tel: (673) 897 3600

Wing-It #16 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 722 4999)

Paddington House of Pancakes 3&4 Spg 58, Berakas (673 233 1668)

RMS Portview 1st Flr Blk H Yayasan SSHB Complex, BSB (673 223 1466)

Pastamania #9 Grd Flr Blk H Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 245 7441) – Call for other branches

Sorriso Restaurant & Pizzeria 14 Blk B Grd Flr Regent Square, Kiulap (673 223 3030)

Pepper Lunch Brunei C9/10 Grd Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kg Kiulap (673 225 3000)

Swensen’s 2.34-2.36 2nd Flr The Mall, Gadong (673 245 1864)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Coffee & Cafes Gourmet, premium-grade, specialty coffee – this list accommodates the best of the burgeoning local coffee industry

BELLUNO Café #2 Blk C Kiarong Complex, Kg Kiarong (673 242 9010) Brew Café & Bakery #47 Grd Flr Blk C Gadong Central, Menglait (673 242 7554)

Games & Lattes #E9 Grd Flr Blk E Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 223 5200) Gloria Jean’s Coffee G17 Citis Square, Berakas (673 233 8452)

Another Café #2 Grd Flr Blk A Bgn Hj Abd Rahman & Hjh Siti Ajar, Kiulap (673 223 3593)

Countrypatch Café 3 Grd Flr Blk D Bgn Hj Abd Rahman, Kiulap (673 223 2368) – Call for other branches

High Frequency Lifestyle Café 1st Flr Unit 5 Blk B Sempurna Complex, Batu Bersurat (673 242 8262)

Baristas by Modesto Grd Flr Foor Areana Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kg Kiulap (673 720 3777/223 7771)

Fleur-de-lys L1/1 Seri Q-Lap Mall, Kiulap (673 223 1777) – Call for other branches

It’s a Grind Coffeehouse 1, Grd Floor, Bgn AlWarasah, Muara Town (673 277 2424)

Kitchen of Jasmine by Aranda Café #17, Blk E, Atiya Complex, Spg 100, Jln Jerudong (673 899 7333) Mr Baker’s Cafeteria C47 Blk C Grd Flr Gadong Central, Menglait (673 242 7554) Ner Dee Café #F11 1st Flr Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap (673 721 4977) Peppermint Café 14, Blk A, Grd Floor, Spg 493, Beribi (673 8221888)

biG listings

Margherita Pizzeria Serving up pizzas in an industrial-looking canteen that lures people in with the smell of pizza, this pizzeria offers classics like Margherita and Meat Lovers as well as some alien choices such as Meatballs in Space and the Buffalo Chicken Pizza. An attractive spot in the busy area of Kg Mata-Mata (right next to Supasave and the Scout’s Headquarters) gives this pizzeria an instant advantage, but their fast service and mouth-watering pizzas will soon cement its position as a local favourite. #5 Blk A Scout Complex Jln Gadong, Kg Mata-Mata Tel: (673) 868 8884

Li Gong The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Lobby Lounge The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888)

Mituo Vegetarian Restaurant Grd Flr Pg Anak Puteri Norain Complex, Batu Satu (673 222 2821)

Pantai Restaurant The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888)

Pureland Vegetarian Restaurant #15 Blk B Grd Flr Bgn Hj Awg Ahmad bin Hassan & Anakanak, Kiulap (673 223 6503)

Savy’s Brasserie 204 Lvl 2 Mabohai Shopping Complex, Mabohai (673 224 0829) Senja Restaurant 8&9 Grd Flr Seri Kiulap Complex, Kiulap (673 223 5313) Spaghettini The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Tarindak d’Polo Royal Brunei Polo & Riding Club, Jerudong (673 261 2500)

Piccolo Café #11 Jln McArthur, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 224 1558)

Go Green Healthy and vegetarian friendly options

Tarindak D’Seni Brunei Arts & Handicrafts Centre, Kota Batu (673 224 0422)

The Energy Kitchen Grd Flr Fitness Zone Kiulap (673 223 3323) Tien Hsing Vegetarian Restaurant Bangunan Hj Abdullah, Jalan Gadong, Menglait Quick Eats Fast and delicious meals for those on the go Bento Brothers #B19 Blk B Bgn Habza Spg 150, Kg Kiulap (673 2236800) Nasi Katok Mama Express 3 Blk A Grd Flr Kompleks Madang, Madang (673 864 1681) Pan & Wok #28A Grd Flr Airport Mall, Kg Jaya Setia (673 234 2836)

Non-Halal Options Danes Café #102, Bgn Batu Bersurat, Jln Batu Bersurat (673 242 8914) Golden Leaf RestaUrant Block A, Bangunan PAP Umi Kalthum Shophouse, Batu 2/4, Jln Tutong (673 245 1169) Lucky RestaUrant No.7-10, PAP Umi Kalthum Shophouse, Jln Tutong (673 222 0181) New Bee Hwa Restaurant Unit 6, Block J, Jln Batu Bersurat, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 860 7830) Phongmun Restaurant 2nd Flr Teck Guan Plaza Jln Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 222 9561) Sui Heng Restaurant Grd Flr Hj Munchit & Hjh Rapiah Complex, Kg Jaya Setia (673 233 8321) Tasty Corner Sdn Bhd Unit No.10, Bangunan Good Wood Building, Kg Menglait (673 245 7991)

Rack & Brew #9 Blk H 1st & 2nd Flr Abdul Razak Complex, Gadong (673 729 9668) Rafia’s VK Café G13 Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia (673 890 6990) The Frenz Café #10 Blk 8 Hj Ibrahim Building, Mentiri (673 279 1374) The Library Café #6 Blk C Bangunan Setia Kenangan II, Kiulap

Spoonfull Restaurant The trend of incorporating salted egg yolk into pretty much any type of dish has been on the rise here, and Spoonfull’s signature Salted Egg Yolk fries and Salted Egg Yolk wings are the most popular items on its menu. But there are other gems here you should try, from its Chicken Curry Mantou Burger, Nasi Lemak, Char Mee Pasta (served with a runny soft-boiled egg on top), and more. Spoonfull is a new kid on the block in Kg Jaya Setia and it has a lot to prove if it’s going to go up against its neighbours, but the eclectic mix of traditional and nontraditional dishes that are just plain delicious is definitely a step in the right direction. #14 Grd Flr Citis Square, Kg Jaya Setia Tel: (673) 234 0026

Divine Dining Exquisite meals in beautiful settings – perfect for special occasions Atrium Café The Empire Hotel & Country Club, Jerudong (673 241 8888) Dynasty Restaurant Grd Flr The Centrepoint Hotel, Gadong (673 243 0185) Fratini’s Restaurant Blk H Yayasan Complex Waterfront Side, Bandar Seri Begawan (673 223 1466) – Call for other branches I-Lotus 20 Spg 12-26 Perumahan Rakyat Jati, Kg Rimba (673 242 2466)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG listings

Sabah & Sarawak The restaurants and eateries listed are arranged by food types, and not in order of our preference. Reviews are written from a typical diner’s perspective and written based on actual visits to the establishments listed, without the prior knowledge of the restaurants. Information given on menus, hours or prices may change and should be checked. Credit Cards : AE | American Express MC | MasterCard V | Visa

Eat (Sabah) Bar Tzar Bistro Lot 12 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 211) Bella Italia 69 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 313 366) Borneo Wild Treasure Lot 27-0 Blk C Lrg Bundusan Square1D, Kota Kinabalu (6088 732 222) Brass Monkey Lot 1-0 Lorong Lintas Plaza 4, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 543) Cabo Lot 32-0, Lorong Lintas Plaza 3, Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 252 182 - Mexican cuisine Café De Vie Lot D-0-6 Lorong Metro Town 3, Kota Kinabalu (6088 393 863) Circle Restaurant Le Meridien Hotel, Kota Kinabalu (6088 322 222) Emperor’s Delight Lot 6 Grd Flr Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 288 686) Fong Ip Café Lot 100 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 213 618) Full House G7&1-10 Suria Sabah Jln Tun Fuad Stephens (014 559 9306) Gam Tong Hong Kong Recipe Lot G-823 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 833)

Hot Rod Sausage House No 1-G-02 Blk A Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6016 804 3999) Hut Steak House & Restaurant 29 Blk E Damai Plaza, Kota Kinabalu (6088 238 558) Jothy’s Fish head Curry & Banana Leaf Blk 1 Lot G9 Api Api Centre, Kota Kinabalu (6088 261 595) K. Sanba’s Curry Specials Blk F Lorong Plaza Utama 1 Alamesra, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 2308) Kampung Nelayan Taman Tun Fuad Bukit Padan, Kota Kinabalu (6088 256 001) Kirishima Japanese Restaurant Cititel Express No 1 Jln Singgah Mata 1 Asia City, Kota Kinabalu (6088 217 868) Kohinoor North Indian Restaurant Lot 4 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 235 160) Korean Club Restaurant 4 Jln Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 213) Kudos Bistro 69 Gaya Street (inside Jesselton Hotel), Kota Kinabalu (6088 313 366) La Fuente G-816 Grd Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 000)

Grand Port View Sea View Restaurant 16 Jln Tun Fuad Stephen, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178)

La Safran Grd Flr, The Peak Vista, Blk B, Lorong Puncak 1, Tg Lipat, 88400 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 266 489 - non-halal French cuisine

Hana Japanese Restaurant Lot S21&S22 Blk E City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 538 178)

Little Italy Grd Flr Hotel Capital Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 232 231)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Mad Ben Café Lot 121, Jalan Gaya, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 255 073 - classic western food Mai Yai Thai Orchid Restaurant Lot 13 KK Waterfront, Kota Kinabalu (6088 234 841) Mdm Ing Fish Noodle Lot 21 Towering Koidupan Perdana Jln Tambunan, Penampang (6016 831 8726) Mr Ho’s Fine Foods L-72-G Grd Flr Blk L KK Times Square Phase 1, Kota Kinabalu (6088 222 623) Nagasaki Japanese Restaurant No 19 Grd Flr Bangunan Harrison Jln Hj Saman, Kota Kinabalu (6088 216 623) Nam Chai Restaurant Bah Kut Teh 10 Blk D Bdr Nam Tung, Sandakan (6089 612 603) Nan Yang Chic Kut Teh Grd Flr Lot 47 Jln Pantai, Kota Kinabalu (6016 833 5722) Natural Kitchen Lot No B10 & B11, Suria Sabah Shoppin Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 180) Nishiki Japanese Restaurant Shop 4 Grd Flr 63 Gaya Street, Kota Kinabalu (6088 230 582) October Coffee House Blk B The Peak Vista Lorong Puncak 1 Tjg Lipat, Kota Kinabalu (6010 346 954) Open Kitchen Grd Flr, Unit 8, Blk 1, Metro Town, 88300 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 254 161 - Asian food incorporating health conscious ingredients Pancake House Concourse Flr 1Borneo Hypermall, Kota Kinabalu

(6088 448 110) Lot G94-94A Karamunsing Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 319 168) Party Play 117 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 311 210) Pasta Pasta 108 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6014 371 4665) Peppermint Vietnamese Cuisine No. 85 Grd Flr Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6012 802 4582) Port View Seafood Village Lot 18 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 221 753)

Vino Vino Bistro Unit J-57, 1st Flr, KK Times Square, 88100 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 486 363 - non-halal European fare with extensive wine collection

Asian Express Restaurant G40 The Spring, Kuching (6082 414 088)

Wah San Restaurant D2-G Blk 17 Jln Pryer, Sandakan (6089 212 626)

Beei Jing Restaurant Sdn Bhd 157 Jln Kg Nyabor, Sibu (6084 330 955)

Yamagoya Ramen Lot 109 Jln Gaya, Kota Kinabalu (6088 253 701) Yoshimi Japanese Restaurant Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 488 388)

Bee Hiong Restaurant Café 157G Jln Muhibbah, Lawas (6085 285 137)

Bismi Restaurant 27 Jln Sommerville, Bintulu (6086 331 835) Bites by the Batik 38 Jln Pandungan, Kuching (6082 422 845)

Restaurant Baba & Nyonya Recipe Blk E Grd Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6016 810 8206) Restoran Makanan Sedap No 1-0-1 Blk B Jln Kolam Centre Phase 2 Jln Lintas, Kota Kinabalu (6088 247 459) Sailors Lot 36 1st Flr Grand Millennium Plaza, Penampang (6088 731 960) Sakura Japanese Restaurant G-23A & G-25, Oceanus Waterfront Mall Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, 88000 Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 273 604 - Japanese cuisine Santola Café Lot 14 Blk B Damai Point, Kota Kinabalu (6088 260 188) Seng Hing Restaurant Ruang Sinsugan 2, Kota Kinabalu (6088 211 594) Seremban Seafood Restaurant Lot 126 Blk O Plaza Permai, Kota Kinabalu (6088 484 922) Suang Tain Seafood Restaurant Lot 12 Blk A Grd Flr SEDCO Complex, Kota Kinabalu (6088 223 080) Supul Korean BBQ Restaurant Lot S-1-8 1st Flr City Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 448 844) Toscani’s Lot 14 The Waterfront Jln Tun Fuad Stephens, Kota Kinabalu (6088 242 879)

Yu Kee Bak Kut Teh 74, Jln Gaya, 88000, Kota Kinabalu Tel: (6088) 221 192 - All pork dishes served in herbal soup

Eat (Sarawak) A One Seafood Restaurant Lrg Chew Siik Hiong 1, Sibu (6084 215 803) Absolute Tribal Restaurant Hills Shopping Mall, Kuching (6082 237 468) Alfian Restaurant 52 Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 215) All Joy Café 8-1 Jln Khoo Hun Yeang, Kuching (6082 243 535) Apollo Seafood Centre 4 Jln Yu Seng Selatan, Miri (6085 420 813) Apple Restaurant 78 Jln Tun Ahmad Zaidi, Bintulu (6086 333 377) Aroma Café 126 Jln Tabuan, Kuching (6082 417 163)

Bla Bla Bla 27, Jln Tabuan, 93000 Kuching Tel: (6082) 233 944 - Chinese-inspired fusion dishes Black Bean Coffe & Tea 87, Ewe Hai Street, 93000 Kuching (6082) 420 290 - Most aromatic shop in town with the finest brews Boardriders Café Plaza Merdeka Jln Pearl, Kuching (6082 237 526) Boulevard Restaurant 2228 Jln Saberkas, Lutong (6085 653 175) Buenas Filipino Lechon & Restaurant 329 Jln Tj Batu, Bintulu (6086 310 860) Café Café at Original Carwash Lot 211-214, Section 9, KTLD, Rubber Rd, Kuching Tel: (6082) 256 396 - Asian and western fare including Nyonya and Foochow cuisine Café Min Xin Lot 1126-27 Riam Comm Centre, Miri (6085 628 839)

biG listings

Koreana Restaurant 10002 Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6082 575 072)

Nam Hoi Restaurant 110 Jln Penrissen Bt 7, Kuching (6082 612 379)

Sin Soon Chin Restaurant 2415 Jln Boulevard 2, Miri (6012 808 5456)

Wei Thian Restaurant Golden Square, Siburan (6082 862 968)

Kuching Noodle Porridge House 115-1 Wisma Saberkas, Kuching (6082 426 005)

Orion Tropical Jln Merpati, Miri (6085 417 417)

Sri Menanti Coffee House Restaurant 15 Lrg Pahlawan 7b, Sibu (6084 218 196)

Xin Tsui Siang Kitchen Wisma Nation Horizon Blk D, Kuching (6082 414 616)

Surabaya Restaurant 288 Jln Bendahara, Miri (6085 411 239)

Yun Yan Restaurant Stutong Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 366 115)

Sushi Kin The Spring, Kuching (6082 245 355)

Zhun San Yen Vegetarian Food Lot 165 Jln Chan Ann, Kuching (6082 230 068)

L.L. Banana Leaf 7G Lorong Rubber 1 Jln Rubber, Kuching (6082 239 404) Li Garden Restaurant Hock Lee Centre, Kuching (6082 340 785) Lim Hock Ann 96 1 Jln Kg Kuntal, Kuching (6082 846 533) Lok Thian Restaurant 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 3313 310) Lu Lai Vegetarian 3641, Lrg 2 Off Jln Rock, Kuching (6082 242 863)

Padungan Restaurant 268 Jln Tunku Abd Rahman, Kuching (6082 233 417) Pin Pin Café 18 Jln Krokong Bau (6082 763 486) Pinang Nyonya 18, Grd Flr, 2nd Precinct, Jln Setia Raja 93450 Kuching Tel: (6082) 459 162 - non-halal nyonya cuisine Popular Corner Seafoods Restaurant Bda Shahida Commercial Centre, Bintulu (6086 319 688)

Sushi Tie-tts Wisma Sanyan, Sibu (6084 342 875) Ten-Ichi Japanese Restaurant 317 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 331 310) Teo Seafood 787 Jln Kg Buntal, Kuching (6082 846 532)

Capital Restaurant 86 Jln Keppel, Bintulu (6086 331 160)

Farley Restaurant 1721 Jln Salim, Sibu (6019 816 3052)

Carvery Restaurant Jln Abell, Kuching (6082 239 449)

Fisherman Restaurant 4 Jln Chew Geok Lin, Sibu (6084 316 888)

Casabella Mediterranean Restaurant Crown Square, Kuching (6082 346 612)

Fratini’s Restaurant 2512 Jln Boulevard 3, Miri (6085 431 115)

Lyn’s Thandoori Restaurant 7 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 234 934)

Fu Lai Siang Restaurant 108 Jln Pekan Bt Niah, Bt Niah (6085 737 168)

Mango Tree Restaurant Jalan Crookshank, Kuching (6082 235 353)

Golden City Restaurant 87, Jln Ong Chu Seng, Saratok (6083 436 139)

Map Restaurant Bang Terminal, Kuching (6082 459 087)

Highlands Seafood Restaurant 298 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 318 828)

Marco Polo Restaurant 116A BDA Shahida, Bintulu (6086 332 458)

Rock Road Seafood Restaurant 1230 Jln Rock Bt 2½ , Kuching (6082 241 575)

Hock Chu Leu Restaurant 28 Jln Tukang Besi, Sibu (6084 316 524)

Medan Seafood Restaurant 56, Jln Mdn Setiaraja, Mukah (6084 874 145)

Sajian Warisan Restaurant 537 Jln Gartak, Miri (6085 429 911)

Tong Lok Restaurant 1367 Jln Buangsiol, Limbang (6085 216 188)

Imperial Duck Restaurant 313 Jln Padungan, Kuching (6082 336 313)

Merry Restaurant 187 Jln Song Thian Cheok, Kuching (6082 240 118)

Salleh’s Corner Café RPR Phase 2 Shoplot Jln Astana Petra Jaya, Kuching (6012 807 8033)

James Brooke Bistro & Café Jalan Tunku Abdul Rahman, 93100 Kuching Tel: (6082) 412 210 - Western and signature local cuisine by the waterfront

Metro Café 781 Jln Bangkita, Limbang (6085 215 488)

Tong Xin Court Restaurant 151 Lrg Datuk Abang Abd Rahim 5a, Kuching (6082 482 252)

Sea View Restaurant G Pusat Tmn SDagang, Bintulu (6086 334 929)

Min Hua (89) Restaurant G 13 Jln Bintang Utara, Bintangor (6084 693 240)

Seventy2 Restaurant 894 Jln Permaisuri, Miri (6085 366 318)

Topspot Bukit Mata Seafood Centre Jln Padungan, Bukit Mata, Kuching Tel: (6019) 889 9838 - Halal seafood centre with seafood fresh off the boats

Momoyama Wisma Phoenix, Kuching (6082 420 561)

Shabu-kun Restaurant 253 Jln Tj Bt, Bintulu (6086 317 311)

Tribal Stove Blk H Jln Borneo Taman Sri, Kuching (6082 234 873)

My Little Kitchen 56, Upper China Street, D’tea Pavilion, Friendship Park Jln Song, Kuching Tel: (6016) 858 6669 - Home cooked style Scandinavian food inspired by the owner’s grandma’s recipes

Sheraton Restaurant 37 Psn Brooke, Sibu (6084 336 341)

Wang Hin Restaurant 1 Soon Hup Comm Complex, Miri (6085 413 129)

Sin Lung Sheng Fu Tiao Qiang Restaurant 10788 Jln Simpang Tiga, Kuching (6082 231 260)

Warung Nasi Kuning Jln Tun Jugah, Kuching (6016 809 1286)

Chef at Home Lorong Green 1 Blk 10, Kuching (6016 858 5159) Chuan Hong Restaurant 123 Jln Council SAman (6083 322 466) Crown Dynasty Restaurant Chinese Chamber of Commerce, Bintulu (6086 335 908) Da Mi Xiang Gu Tou Bao Restaurant Tabuan Hts Comm Centre, Kuching (6082 458 952) Dynasty Chinese Restaurant Oil Town Comm Complex, Miri (6085 424 000) East Court Chicken Rice 867 Jln Club SAman (6083 326 818) Eden Everise Wisma Nation Horizon, Block C, Kuching (6016 888 4522) Escobar SF3 Damai Cenral Pantai Damai Santubong, Kuching (6014 288 1160) Fac Bravo Restaurant 7778 Jln Sultan Iskandar, Bintulu (6086 316 920)

Jubilee Restaurant 49G Jln India, Kuching (6082 245 626) Khan’s Bilal Restaurant 229-G Jln Maju, Miri (6085 418 440) Kim Bay HK Macau Restaurant Boulevard Shopping Mall Jln Datuk Tawi, Kuching (6082 239 308)

Lucky Restaurant 65C G Pekan Marudi, Marudi (6085 755 562)

Portico 17A Lorong Park Lane, Kuching (6019 819 8046) Pot & Grill Restaurant 9 Jln Tun Abd Rahman Yaakub, Kuching (6082 425 525) Rejang Restaurant 6 Lrg Lanang 2 Sibu (6016 860 2636) Robata Yaki 493 Jln Rambutan, Kuching (6082 235 372)

The Banquet 4560 Jln Datuk Tawi Sli, Kuching (6082 451 414) The Dyak Restaurant Sublot 29, Grd Flr, Panovel Commercial Complex, Jln Simpang Tiga, 93300, Kuching Tel: (6016) 868 0071 - indigenous Dayak cuisine The Junk 80, Jln Wayang, 93000 Kuching (6082) 259 450 - Western fare Tian Xian Relish Restaurant 313 Jln Melaka Raya, MC (606 288 1120)

INVIGORATE

SABAH AC Beauty Lane #2-10B Lvl 2 Suria Sabah Shopping Mall, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 242) Chi, The Spa Shangri-La’s Tanjung Aru Resort & Spa, Jln Aru, Kota Kinabalu (6088 327 882) Hakod Oasis Day Spa Warisan Square, Kota Kinabalu (6088 487 700) Jari Jari Spa Blk B 2nd Flr Plaza Tanjung Aru, Jln Mat Salleh, Kota Kinabalu (6088 272 606) Mandara Spa The Magellan Sutera, 1 Sutera Habour Boulevard, Kota Kinabalu (6088 318 888) South Sea Sanctuary Spa Jln Tugu Pusat Bandar, Kota Kinabalu (6088 248 221)

SARAWAK Borneo Odyssey Spa Blk 13 Hilltop Wing, Damai Beach Resort, Santubong (6082 846 999) Damaipuri Resort & Spa Teluk Penyuk, Santubong (6082 846 900) Jungle Spa Borneo Highlands Resort, Jln Borneo Heights, Kuching (6019 828 0790) Mirage Spa Lot 151 Sect 28, KUCHING (6082 424 022) Putri Sejinjang Spa Rumah Kedai Mara, Heritage Jargen, Jln Rahman Yaakob, Kuching (6082 428 660)

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG essentials

BRUNEI Banks Banks in Brunei Darussalam are usually open Mondays to Fridays, 9am - 4pm and on Saturdays, 9am 11am. Some banks have branches with later closing times. Islamic banks follow the same operation hours except on Fridays when they are closed for prayers between 11am - 2.30pm. Cash withdrawals and deposits can be made from Automated Teller Machines (ATM) that can be found in various shopping complexes and bank branches all over the country. ATM cards affiliated with the international Plus or Cirrus systems are accepted at most ATMs.

Credit cards VISA and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards in hotels, restaurants and major shopping complexes. Some establishments accept American Express.

Money Changer Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, hotels, various shopping complexes and banks. To cash or exchange travelers cheques, visit major international banks in the capital.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Telecommunications Friday Prayer Time All retail, food and beverage outlets and business offices are closed between 12 noon and 2pm on Fridays to observe the Friday prayer time for Muslims.

Islamic Etiquette Although Islam is the state religion of Brunei Darussalam, it is also a country that prides itself on the diversity of its people – including their religions. Visitors are welcome to mosques, provided some etiquette is followed. In general, proper attire is required; women are required to cover their head, shoulders, and knees. Some mosques will provide simple robes and shawls to meet these standards. Shoes are to be removed before entering a mosque. Please do not pass in front of people in prayer, and do not touch the Al-Quran. Please ask for permission before taking photographs – particularly inside! Mosques are usually closed on Thursday and Friday, and during prayer times – your hotel, tour guide, or Muslim locals can help you determine a good time to visit.

Most public phones operate on calling cards such as Hello card, Netkad and Payless. These cards can be purchased at any store and comes in $5, $10, $20 and $50 denominations. Prepaid calling cards for the two mobile telephone operators, DST and Progresif Cellular, can be purchased from their respective authorised dealers in major shopping areas.

Taxis

Tourist Information

Centre

Located at the Kg. Ayer Cultural and Tourism Gallery (9am - 2pm). Visitors can obtain information about Brunei and related pamphlets and maps free from here.

Buses There are six bus routes servicing the BSB area: the Central Line, Circle Line, Eastern Line, Southern Line, Western Line and Northern Line. Normal operating hours are from 6.30am - 6pm. Bus fares start from B$1.00. Buses heading to other towns in Brunei such as Tutong, Kuala Belait and Seria depart from the bus terminal located at the multistorey carpark on Jalan Cator in BSB.

Water

Smoking Smoking is prohibited in both air-conditioned and non airconditioned areas in Brunei Darussalam. Smoking is banned in specific places, including government buildings, hospitals, recreational and educational centres, public transport and restaurants. Offenders could be fined.

Taxis can be found at the airport, hotels, shopping centres, and the central bus station in Bandar Seri Begawan. There are no metered taxis in Brunei, therefore it is advisable to negotiate your fare before getting into one. For your convenience it is also recommended to take your preferred taxi driver’s number to organize prearranged trips.

Taxis Unique to Brunei, the water taxi is the most common means of transportation in Kampong Ayer. You can hail a water taxi from the numerous jetties along the banks of Brunei River. Fares are negotiable but usually a standard ride costs about B$1.00. Regular boat services to Temburong operate between 7.45am to 4pm daily and a round trip costs B$15.00.

Ferry Services Passenger ferry services to the Malaysian island of Labuan operate from 7am to 4pm and departs from the Serasa Terminal in Muara town. The journey takes about 45 minutes to an hour.

USEFUL local Malay words Good morning Good afternoon Goodnight Thank you You’re welcome What is your name? My name is … Excuse me Yes No How much? Where is the toilet? I want to go to … Turn right Turn left

Selamat pagi

Jalan terus

Selamat petang

Lapangan Terbang

Go straight Airport Selamat malam Town Terima kasih Home Sama-sama Shops Siapa nama awda? Eat Nama saya … Drink Maafkan saya Walk Ya Chicken Tidak Beef Berapa? Seafood Di mana tandas? Vegetables Saya mahu pergi ke... Rice Belok ke kanan 1, 2, 3...

Bandar Rumah Kedai Makan Minum Jalan-jalan Ayam Daging Makanan laut Sayur-sayuran Nasi Satu, Dua, Tiga...

Belok ke kiri

NUMBERS TO NOTE

FOREIGN MISSIONS

EMERGENCY Police 993 Fire 995 Ambulance 991 Directory enquiries 113 Darussalam Hotline 123

Australia 222 9436/426

FLIGHT INFORMATION General 2331747

Bangladesh 223 8420 Cambodia 242 6450 Canada 222 0043 China 233 9609 France 222 0969/961

AIRLINES Royal Brunei Airlines 2212222, 2240500 Air Asia 2333045 Malaysian Airlines 2224141/2, 2223074 Singapore Airlines 2244901/2/3/4 Cebu Pacific Air 2222666, 2227965, 2239888

Germany 222 5574

MEDICAL SERVICES RIPAS Hospital 2242424 Jerudong Park Medical Centre (JPMC) 2611433 Gleneagles JPMC 2611212 Tutong Hospital 4221336 Ext 991 Kuala Belait Hospital 3332366 Ext 991 Temburong Hospital 5221526 Ext 127

Pakistan 242 4600

India 233 9685

Unit 1.45B, First Floor The Mall, Abdul Razak Complex Gadong, Brunei, BE3519 Tel: (673) 245 7700

Opening Hours: 10am - 10pm www.missha.net

Indonesia 233 0180 Japan 222 9265/6867 Korea 233 0248 Laos 238 4382 Malaysia 238 1095/1097 Myanmar 245 1960/1965

Philippines 224 1465/1466 Russia 261 2142 Saudi Arabia 279 2822/2823 Singapore 226 2714/2742 Thailand 265 3108 United Kingdom 222 2231 USA 238 4616 Vietnam 265 1580/1587

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

biG essentials

Tourist Information Centre

SABAH Banks

Banks open from 9am to 4pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

Credit Cards Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.

Money Changer

Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks.

SARAWAK Banks

Banks open from 9.30am to 3pm from Mondays to Fridays and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays. ATM machines are available 24 hours. Major shopping malls also have ATM machines and are available during operating hours.

Credit Cards Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted credit cards at hotels, restaurants and major shopping malls. Some establishments do accept American Express.

Telecommunications

Buses

There are three main bus terminals that operate regular services. The terminal along Jalan Tun Razak provides services within the city and its outskirts. For destinations south of the city (Papar, Beaufort, Tenom, Tambunan, Keningau), use the terminal near Padang Merdeka. For any other destinations north of the city and all the way to the east coast towns of Sandakan, Tawau, Lahad Datu and Semporna, you have to take a bus to the Kota Kinabalu North Bus Terminal in Inanam and from there proceed to your destination of choice. Kinabalu Park is located en route from Kota Kinabalu to Sandakan.

Air Travel

Kota Kinabalu International Airport (KKIA) is the second busiest airport in Malaysia and is the main terminal for Malaysia Airlines, MASWings, Firefly, Royal Brunei Airlines, Dragonair, Silkair and Asiana Airlines. Terminal 2 caters to low-cost carriers Air Asia, Cebu Pacific and Eastar Jet.

A free city-tram service is available for sightseeing around Kuching with pick up points at designated hotels. A daily bus service between Kuching and the airport operates from 6am-7pm and takes 40 minutes. The main intercity bus terminal is at Penrissen Bus Terminal southeast of Kuching. Ask Tourism Information Centres for bus timetables; a ‘green bus’ in the Kuching area goes to Santubong (SCV).

Air Travel

Kuching International Airport services airlines to destinations within Malaysia and overseas via Malaysia Airlines, Air Asia, Firefly, Tiger Airways, Royal Brunei, Silk Air and Batavia Air (Pontianak, Kalimantan). A network of services using smaller aircrafts provides access to remote destinations within Sarawak such as Bario, Mulu and Ba Kelalan.

Licensed money changers can be found at the airport, shopping malls, hotels and major banks. Some money changers may not accept foreign currency in small denomination or notes with a date or serial number that they don’t approve of.

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Taxis

Taxis are available at both airport terminals and cost about RM30.00 to get to the city. The journey takes between 10-15 minutes. Within the city, taxi stations are located next to major shopping malls and hotels. Long distance taxi services can be found next to Padang Merdeka.

Buses

Money Changer

It is possible to make IDD phone calls at payphones using coins or call cards. Prepaid calling cards are also widely available by authorized dealers at shopping malls. Most major hotels have WIFI facility either in their guest rooms or public areas. An increasing number of restaurants now have WIFI zones too. Cybercafés offer very affordable rates for internet services.

Telecommunications

Sabah Tourism Board Jalan Gaya Tel: (6088) 212 121 Sri Pelancongan Sabah Sinsuran Complex Tel: (6088) 232 121 Tourism Malaysia (Sabah) Api Api Centre Tel: (6088) 211 732 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 1 Tel: (6088) 413 359 Visitors’ Information Centre Terminal 2 Tel: (6088) 447 075

Ferry Services Jesselton Point is the main terminal for boats to the Tunku Abdul Rahman Park islands and to Labuan Island. If you wish to drive to Labuan, use the ferry terminal at Menumbok south of the city where car ferries are available.

Express Boats and Ferry Services A boat service locally known as tambang is available for the short trip across Kuching River to the riverside villages on the other side and along the river for sightseeing. Fast and comfortable express boats connect coastal towns (Kuching, Sibu, Kapit) and villages on the major rivers in Sarawak. The Express Ferry Terminal in Kuching offers trips to Sibu and onwards to Kapit for upriver journeys. Take a bus from Sibu to Miri for ferries to Brunei and onwards to Labuan island and Kota Kinabalu.

Taxis

Taxi fare from Kuching Tourist airport to the city cost about Information Centre RM22.00 per way. Taxies are easily found at large hotels, or at taxi stands in all the major towns in Sarawak. Taxis don’t use meters so always negotiate the fare before getting into a cab!

Kuching Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6082) 410 944/2 Miri Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6085) 434 181 Sibu Visitors’ Information Centre Tel: (6084) 340 980

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Embassy Row

International Convention Centre

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D'Anggerek

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National Stadium

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Bank/ ATM/ Money Changer

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Prime Minister Office Building

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Brunei International Airport

Shop

Perd an

Mabohai Shopping Complex

Brunei Arts & Handicraft Centre Kampong Ayer

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Royal Brunei Airlines Golf Club

Public Transport

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Edinburgh Palace Times Square Hotel

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Tasek Lama Recreational Park

Orchid Garden Hotel

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Hua Ho Manggis Mall

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Mentiri Utama Jalan

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Jame Asr’ Mosque

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Police Headquarters

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Grand City Hotel

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Secretariat Building Pearce

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Takaful IBB Building

Jalan Roberts

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Jalan Pretty

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The Royal Regalia Building

Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien

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Brunei History Centre Jala n

Chinese Temple

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Brunei Hotel

PGGMB Building

Kianggeh Open-Air Food Court

Dermaga Diraja Bandar Seri Begawan

Post Office

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Terrace Hotel

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Capital Residence Suites

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Jubilee Hotel

Jalan Tutong

Tamu Selera (Hawker Stalls)

Jalan

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Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Jalan S toney

Syariah Courts

na Daru

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Sumb i

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Dewan Bahasa (Library)

Yayasan SHHB Complex

Jalan McArthur

Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque

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Public Transport

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Restaurant

Place of Interest

Water Taxi

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Bangunan H Tahir A

Gadong Fish & Night Markets

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Baiduri Bank

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Borneo.Insiderâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s.Guide

biG screen

Movies to look out for this quarter

JUL

Star Trek Beyond

The BFG

Starring Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, Zoe Zaldana, Idris Alba

SEP Miss Peregrine’s Home for Peculiar Children

The crew of the USS Enterprise returns! This time they encounter a new enemy that puts everything they stand for to the test.

Starring Mark Rylance, Rebecca Hall, Bill Hader The Big Friendly Giant (Rylance) befriends a little orphan girl, Sophie, and shows her that he is not at all like the other giants who eat boys and girls but a benevolent creature.

Starring Eva Green, Samuel L. Jackson, Kim Dickens Jacob, a moody teenager who discovers over the course of a series of increasingly dangerous adventures, that his grandfather’s stories of monsters and children with strange powers are actually true.

AUG AUG

Suicide Squad

JUL

Starring Will Smith, Margot Robbie, Jared Leto, Viola Davis

Jason Bourne JUL

The Legend of Tarzan Starring Alexander Skarsgard, Samuel L. Jackson, Margot Robbie, Christoph Waltz A much older Tarzan (Skarsgard), who is now accustomed to a life in London with his wife, Jane (Robbie), is invited back to Congo to serve as a trade emissary, unaware that he is a pawn in a deadly plot masterminded by Captain Leon Rom (Waltz) 66

Borneo.Insider’s.Guide

Starring Matt Damon, Alicia Vikander, Tommy Lee Jones, Vincent Cassel CIA’s most lethal former operative Jason Bourne, resurfaces with all his memory intact after years of hiding. He goes back to where he started to uncover hidden truths about his past.

JUL

A secret government agency recruits imprisoned villains with super powers to form a Suicide Squad, a task force assigned to execute dangerous missions in exchange for shorter prison sentences.

Ghostbusters Melissa McCarthy, Kristen Wiig, Kate Mckinnon, Leslie Jones, Chris Hemsworth Thirty years after Ghostbusters saved the world from supernatural villains, this refreshing reboot stars an all-female cast with appearances by original cast members Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd and Sigourney Weaver.

Pete’s Dragon Starring Bryce Dallas Howard, Robert Redford, Karl Urban, Wes Bentley A park ranger (Dallas Howard) discovers Pete, a mysterious boy with no family or home who lives in the forest with his best pal – a dragon named Elliot. This reimagining of a 1977 Disney Classic blends live action and CGI.

THE MALL CINEPLEX @ LEVEL 3, THE MALL, GADONG 2422455 www.themallcineplex.com TIMES CINEPLEX@EMPIRE, EMPIRE HOTEL AND COUNTRY CLUB, JERUDONG 2610001 www.timescineplex.com/empirePSBdualplex TIMES SQUARE CINEPLEX @ 4TH FLOOR, TIMES SQUARE SHOPPING CENTRE, BERAKAS 2341122 www.timescineplex.com The Arena Cineplex @ Seri Qlap Mall, Kg 2230138 www.arena-cineplex.com Kiulap TUTONG TIMES CINEPLEX @ BERJAYA COMPLEX, TUTONG 4220422 PSB DUALPLEX, SERIA @ F19, JALAN TENGAH, SERIA 3221437 www.facebook.com/PSBdualplex

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