Excellent Abodes Excellent Abodes Excellent Abodes

Transcription

Excellent Abodes Excellent Abodes Excellent Abodes
roya l b ru n e i a ir l in e s | S ep tember - October 20 15
BY ROYA L B R U N E I A I R L I N E S | S ep t e mb er - O ctob e r 2 01 5
Ex
xcel
c e l l een
nt Ab
bo
od
des
es
Sout
So
South
uth
ut
h Ea
East
a st
s A
Asia
s a
si
IN THIS ISSUE
© Les Watling for the Mountains
in the Sea Research Team, IFE,
URI-IAO, and NOAA
Spa Village
Tembok Bali
08
62
14 22
68
COVER
A surreal
underwater park,
the Philippines.
AWARD FOR BEST MAGAZINE
Indian International
Journalism Festival 2011
Editorial Board
Advisor Royal Brunei Airlines
Head, Corporate Communications Azhani Abu Daniel
Editorial Muaz Roslan, Mahyuddin Zulkipli
Editorial & Production
General Manager Jacqueline W M Wong
Editor Anis Ramli
Editorial Assistant Kim Low
Studio Manager Lau Weng Leong
Creative Director Michele Tee
Digital Media Designer Tang Sze Yik
Imaging Colourist June Lim
Studio Assistant Wong Fu Yong
Coordinator Sa’adiah Hj Abas
Print Production
Brunei Press Sdn. Bhd., Brunei Darussalam
Imagery & PrePress
DI Expressions Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia
Publishing & AdSales
Digital Impressions
Lot 20010, Taman Alam
Jalan Telanai, Beribi BE1118
Bandar Seri Begawan
Brunei Darussalam
T: +673 2654 851
F: +673 2650 276
E: [email protected]
FEATURES
08
Life, Literature, Legacy.
Remembering Agatha Christie, United Kingdom.
14
The Other World
The creatures of the deep, Singapore.
22
Bookmark Melbourne
Literature is hot in Melbourne!
30
Excellent Abodes
South East Asia has the best hotels.
46
Drawing The Devout
Combining faith and clean fun, Malaysia.
MUHIBAH is published by Digital Impressions. All rights reserved.
Copyright by Royal Brunei Airlines. Unsolicited materials will be
returned only if accompanied by a self-addressed envelope
and sufficient return postage. While every reasonable care is
taken by the editor, no responsibility is assumed for the return of
unsolicited material. The contents of this magazine are entirely
the personal views of the author(s) and/or contributors and
do not in any way reflect the views or opinions of the publisher.
The publisher disclaims all and any liability to any person arising
from the printing, sale or use of the materials in this magazine.
The Editorial team reserves the right to edit and/or rewrite all
materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage.
MUHIBAH is complimentary for passengers on Royal Brunei
Airlines. It is also available on subscription at BND7 per copy,
excluding postage.
Alternatively, log on www.flyroyalbrunei.com for e-MUHIBAH.
2
MUHIBAH
46
30
David Kirkland/Brunei Tourism
78
70
54
54
Best of Brunei
Maritime Heritage.
05
Keistimewaan Brunei
Warisan Maritim.
06
LIFESTYLE
62
64
66
68
70
WELCOME ABOARD
Deputy Chairman’s
Message
Inside RB
72
74
75
76
78
Selamat Datang
Brunei International Airport
Traveller’s Guide
Route Map & Destinations
Abode of Peace
Motoring Mitsubishi Attrage
In Person Tom Schmidt
The Buzz What’s New
Take 5 Bali
Travel Diary
66
Media & Sales Representatives
• AUSTRIA Publimedia GmbH, T: (43) 1 211 53 61, F: (43) 1 21 21 602, E: [email protected] • AUSTRALIA Mass Media Publicitas, T: (61) 2 9252 3476, F: (61) 2 9251 3726, E: [email protected] • CANADA McGown/INTERMAC - Publicitas, T: (514) 7355191, F: (514) 3429406, E: [email protected] • CHINA Publicitas (Beijing) Advertising Co., Ltd., Rm 1108,
Derun Tower, No. 3 Yong’an Dongli, Jianwai Avenue, Chaoyang District, Beijing 100022, T: (86) 10 5879 5885 ext. 328, F: (86) 10 5879 3884, E: [email protected] • FRANCE Publicitas
S.A., T: (33) 1 53 64 88 76, F: (33) 1 45 00 94 81, E: [email protected] • GERMANY Publicitas Germany GmbH, T: (49) 89 921 06 10, F: (49) 89 921 06 30, E: ppn-frankfurt@
publicitas.com • HONG KONG Emphasis Media Limited, T: (852) 2516 1000, F: (852) 2561 3349, E: [email protected] • ITALY Siper Media SpA, T: (39) 027 6007743, F: (39) 027
6006836, E: [email protected] • INDIA Mediascope Publicitas, T: (91) 22 2204 8890, F: (91) 2282 4889, E: [email protected] • INDONESIA PT Medianet Intisarana, T: (62) 21 798
7314, F: (62) 21 798 7316, E: [email protected] • JAPAN Nakayama Media International Inc., Fonte Aoyama 701, 2-22-14 Minami-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo 107-0062, T: 81-3-3479-6131,
F: 81-3-3479-6130, E: [email protected] • KOREA DooBee Inc., T: (82) 23702 1742, (82) 23702 1777, E: [email protected] • MALAYSIA Publicitas International Sdn Bhd, T: (603) 7729 6923, F:
(603) 7729 7115, E: [email protected] | Mind Sense Sdn Bhd, T: (603) 7781 7700, F: (603) 7781 7880, E: [email protected] • MIDDLE EAST Integrated Advertising Services FZ LLC,
T: (971) 4 391 3360, E: [email protected] • NEPAL Media South Asia (P) Ltd., T: (977) 1442 0848, F: (977) 1442 1179, E: [email protected] • PHILIPPINES Adreflex International, T: (632)
638 8374, F: (977) 1442 1179, E: clang-garcia@adreflexintl.com • SPAIN Publicitas Internacional, S.A., T: (34) 91 323 79 18, F: (34) 91 323 79 23, E: [email protected] • SINGAPORE
Emphasis (SINGAPORE), T: (65) 6735 8681, F: (65) 6733 5681, E: [email protected] • SOUTH AFRICA International Media Representatives (Pty ) Ltd, T: (27) 11 258 4250, F: (27) 11 258 4043,
E: [email protected] • SWEDEN Publicitas Nordic AB, T: (46) 8 442 7050, F: (46) 8 442 7059, E: [email protected] • SWITZERLAND Triservice S.A., T: (41) 22 796 46 26, F: (41) 22 797
02 70, E: [email protected] • THAILAND Thai Representation Limited, T: (662) 332 0503-4, F: (662) 331 9303, E: [email protected] • TAIWAN Emphasis (Taiwan), T: (886) 2
2764 5011, F: (886) 22760 8439, E: [email protected] • UNITED KINGDOM The Powers Turner Group, T: (44) 207 592 8333, F: (44) 207 592 8301, E: [email protected] •
UNITED STATES OF AMERICA Publicitas North America, 330 Seventh Avenue, 5th Floor, New York, NY 10001, T: (1) 212-330-0729, F: (1) 212 599 8298, E: [email protected]
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
3
Now 5x
w e e k ly to b a l i
EFFECTIVE 25 OCTOBER 2015
Better pack for a big adventure as you now have more options to fly on our
increased direct flight from Brunei to Bali. Get ready, it’s time to fly.
Flight Schedule*
FROM
DESTINATION
Brunei
Denpasar, Bali
Denpasar, Bali
Brunei
SCHEDULE
Sat, Sun, Tue, Wed, Thu
Sun, Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri
FLIGHT NO. DEPART
BI757
BI758
Contact Royal Brunei Airlines at 221 2222 or visit our website.
*Flight schedule is subject to change. Conditions apply.
WWW.FLYROYALBRUNEI.COM
ROYALBRUNEIAIR
ROYALBRUNEIAIR
21:05
07:10
ARRIVE
23:30
09:35
WELCOME ONBOARD DEPUTY CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE
The RB Welfare
Committee.
Dear Guests,
Welcome aboard your flight today with Royal Brunei
Airlines (RB). Whether you’re travelling for leisure or
business, we wish you a very pleasant trip. Rest assure
that our team both on the ground and in the air will do
their utmost to make sure you have a comfortable and
restful journey.
For my message this issue, we are proud to highlight
the social, charitable and religious activities
undertaken by the dedicated and hardworking
members of the RB Welfare Committee.
Led by my senior colleague, Captain Khalidkhan Hj
Asmakhan, the RB Welfare Committee focuses on
three key areas: Religious, Social and Sporting Affairs.
The months of Ramadhan (fasting month) and Syawal
(Eid-ul Fitr) were especially busy for the committee
with many charitable fundraising and social activities
organised. This year, our staff contributed generously
towards a special annual fundraising drive for orphans,
distributing BND$6,300 to needy individuals.
On the sporting front, the committee has also been
actively involved in organising the prestigious World
Check out eMuhibah at www.flyroyalbrunei.com Be a fan on
Airline Badminton Championship that was hosted
in Brunei for the very first time in August.
On the fleet front, you may be flying with RB today
on the latest addition to the family: the first of two
brand new Airbus A320 CEO aircraft. This features
the very latest in passenger comfort and amenity
and provides a sneak preview of what to expect
when our new generation A320 NEO fleet arrives
in 2017.
As always, I would like to conclude with a sincere
word of thanks to you for flying with RB today and,
for our part, we will continue do our best to earn
your support in the future.
With warm good wishes,
Dermot Mannion
Deputy Chairman
facebook.com/RoyalBruneiAirlines Follow us on
twitter.com/RoyalBruneiAir
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
5
WELCOME ONBOARD INSIGHTS
INSIDE RB
Roundup of Royal Brunei Airlines happenings.
RB WELFARE ACTIVITIES IN RAMADHAN
RB’s Welfare Committee organised various activities during
the month of Ramadhan. One such activity was the Sungkai
or Berbuka Puasa (breaking of fast) at the new Brunei
International Airport surau on 3 July.
Other events included The Ramadhan Charity Drive on
4 July, where the committee and its members visited two
needy families and presented financial aid and everyday
household items. On 10 July, the committee presented
collected donation to 42 orphans of RB employees.
On 7 July, organised with the RB Train-The-Trainers
committee as well as the Management Information System
(MIS) department, RB donated 20 computers and various
stationery items to the Society for the Management of
Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources
(SMARTER) Brunei.
On 9 July, a Tahlil ceremony was conducted for the late parents
of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin
Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam,
Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi
Waddien ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Muhammad Jamalul Alam
and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit binti
Al-Marhum Pengiran Bendahara Pengiran Anak Abdul Rahman,
at the Royal Mausoleum. Present were members of RB’s Board
of Directors, YM Junaidi Hj Masri and YM Ahmad Jefri Abd
Rahman, RB senior management and staff.
6
MUHIBAH
WORLD AIRLINE BADMINTON
CHAMPIONSHIP 2015
RB hosted the annual World Airline Badminton Championship
(WABC) 2015 at RBRC from 19-22 August, 2015. Nine airlines
took part including AirAsia, Biman Bangladesh Airlines, Cathay
Pacific, Garuda Indonesia, Malaysia Airlines, MASwings, Royal
Brunei Airlines, Singapore Airlines and Thai Airways.
HIS MAJESTY’S BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION
RB took part in the annual “Bersama Rakyat” event
organised by the Brunei Muara District Office as
part of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah
Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan
of Brunei Darussalam’s 69th Birthday celebration.
AIDILFITRI CELEBRATION 2015
RB organised a Hari Raya Aidilfitri
celebration on 10 August at RBRC.
Present were Yang Mulia Dato Paduka
Awang Hj Bahrin, RB’s Chairman;
members of RB’s board of directors;
management; staff as well as RB’s
corporate partners and clients from
around Brunei.
Over in Malaysia, celebrating Hari Raya in
Kuala Lumpur for the first time, Dato Paduka
Hj Alaihuddin Mohamad Taha, Brunei’s
High Commissioner to Malaysia and Datin
Mariani welcomed diplomats, envoys,
esteemed guests from Malaysia and Brunei
to a ‘Brunei-style’ open house at their
residence.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
7
FEATURES
Remembering Agatha Christie 125 years on.
Words SURIANI ARIFF Images IACF MEDIA RESOURCES
8
MUHIBAH
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
9
FEATURES
The doyenne of crime fiction, Agatha Christie, is known worldwide as
one of British’s most loved mystery writers. Her legacy is remarkable.
Her books are thought to have been sold an estimated two billion
copies worldwide; translated into 103 languages, making her the
most translated author to date; and her works remain just as popular
today 36 years after her demise.
The master mystery story-teller lived in Torquay, “The English
Riviera”, in Devon, south-west England, which is now synonymous
with Christie and a must-visit for her fans. This year marks the 125th
anniversary of her birth, and Torquay is rolling out the red carpet
for a nine-day international festival, from September 11 – 20, to
celebrate the Queen of Crime’s life, literature and legacy.
At the heart of the programme will be a birthday party on September
15 at the festival’s main venue, Torre Abbey, while other highlights
and locations will include an exhibition of previously unpublished
photos from the Christie family’s private archives; a cooking session
with French cookery writer Anne Martinetti, author of a series of
recipe books linked to writers/film-makers, who will prepare food
from Christie stories in the kitchen at Agatha’s long-time Devon
home: Greenway on the river Dart, near Brixham; and an introduction
to poisons by A Is For Arsenic author Dr Kathryn Harkup together
with a guided tour of the potent plants garden at Torre Abbey. Few
may know that Christie is a qualified pharmacy dispenser, using
her inside knowledge of poisons in her books to detail with great
accuracy not just the amount of poison required to administer a fatal
dose, but the symptoms as well.
In describing this year’s programme, Dr Anna Farthing, director of the
2015 festival, said, “As well as being the world’s best-selling author,
its most translated novelist and the UK’s most successful woman
playwright, Dame Agatha Christie was a fascinating character, whose
work was shaped by her life and times and whose enduring impact
reaches much further than her writings. In programming this 125th
anniversary festival, my aim has been to fully reflect this breadth
and depth by supplementing favourite and familiar stories with new
viewpoints and fresh insights – some of them never made public
before – in ways that will appeal as much to younger people and
newcomers as they will to lifelong fans.”
FEW MAY KNOW THAT CHRISTIE
IS A QUALIFIED PHARMACY DISPENSER.
10
MUHIBAH
The Christie Archive
More than 100 events will be on the festival menu with each day
taking a special theme, starting on Saturday 12 September with
a Family Day of children’s author-led workshops, trails, stories
and an outdoor show on the lawns where a young Agatha herself
performed. The week then continues with focuses on the First
World War years; Miss Marple; the Golden Age of Detective Fiction,
International Agatha, Agatha & Theatre and Agatha For Everyone.
The Christie Archive
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
11
FEATURES
AGATHA CHRISTIE REMAINS THE MOST
WIDELY PUBLISHED AUTHOR OF ALL TIME.
The festival’s board is chaired by the author’s grandson Mathew
Prichard, who also chairs Agatha Christie Ltd, which manages
the worldwide literary and media rights to the author’s works.
He says, “I am delighted that the 125th anniversary of my
grandmother’s birth in Torquay is being celebrated with such a
lively and wide-ranging programme. I am also pleased that we
have been able to release so much new material from the family’s
collections so enabling visitors to see photographs which have
never been on public view before, learn more about Archie
Christie, the grandfather I never met, and to hear recordings of
my grandmother’s voice when we mark the 80th anniversary of
the RNIB’s Talking Books for the Blind service.”
He added, “I feel sure that my grandmother would have
welcomed the diversity of the programme and how it will
reach so many different audiences, particularly through the
workshop programme for emerging writers and the many new
opportunities for children, older people, film-makers and local
students to get involved.”
The International Agatha Christie Festival (IACF) was created in
2014 to honour Christie who remains the most widely published
author of all time and, in Miss Marple and Hercule Poirot, the
creator of two of literature’s best known characters.
The elegant seaside town of Torquay was where the author was
born on 15 September, 1890. Christie grew up and first started
to write here. Today, visitors can explore the many places which
inspired settings for her stories, among them Greenway, the
memorabilia-filled holiday home where she spent nearly every
summer from 1938 until her death in 1976.
Royal Brunei Airlines flies London daily via Dubai.
Agatha Christie’s
MISS MARPLE and
HERCULE POIROT
books can be found
in bookstores.
MPH members get 10%
discount. Alternatively,
enjoy free delivery*
when you purchase at:
www.mphonline.com
* Terms & conditions apply.
12
MUHIBAH
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
13
FEATURES
Other
World
The
Discover Earth’s last unexplored
frontier at Singapore’s
ArtScience Museum.
Words EMMA RAMSAY
Survival beneath the surface. This is the subject matter
being explored in The Deep, presently showing at the
ArtScience Museum. In this first-of-its-kind exhibition
in South East Asia, The Deep introduces audiences to
the other side of the ocean. A side where the sun rarely
penetrates its darkest depths, shedding light on life
that exists 4,000 metres below.
Set in a pitch-black environment, visitors can
experience what it is like to view the creatures in
their ‘natural habitat’. Featuring over 40 stunning,
rarely seen and sometimes strange-looking deep-sea
creatures, the exhibition explores the miraculous
findings scientists have discovered in the ocean
deep. There are also 67 images of sea fauna and
bioluminescent creatures, some of which have never
been photographed before. Organised into eight zones,
the exhibition will showcase the different depths of the
sea, such as life in the mid-water (up to 4,000 metres
below the surface) and on the ocean floor.
14
MUHIBAH
© 2002 MBARI
01
01
Unlike other jellyfishes that use their sting,
Tiburonia granrojo, the Big Red jellyfish,
deploys its long fleshy arms to capture prey.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
15
02
02
Himantolophus groenlandicus
(Atlantic football fish) has a
luminous lure to attract prey.
16
MUHIBAH
Marina Bay Sands
FEATURES
© 2006 Harbor Branch Oceanographic Institution
03
03
The American submersible
Johnson Sea Link-1 has a
maximum operating depth
of 3,000 feet.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
17
FEATURES
04
04
Brochiraja asperula
(Smooth Asperula) is
endemic to New Zealand.
05
Allan Gottini, stage
manager and taxidermist
for The Deep.
18
MUHIBAH
Marina Bay Sands
Marina Bay Sands
05
.A key highlight of the exhibition is Hidden/
Depths, an installation by Australian artist, Lynette
Wallworth, which encourages visitors to take on
the role of deep-sea explorers. This interactive
installation, commissioned for the exhibition
by ArtScience Museum, allows visitors to use
UV torches to uncover seven, never-beforeseen, deep-sea specimens and three films of
bioluminescent animals, hidden in 18 luminescent
glass sculptures. One deep-sea specimen on
display in Hidden/Depths is the Widenosed
chimeare, otherwise known as the Pinocchio
of the deep-sea. In the murky depths of the
ocean, the Widenosed chimeare depends on its
extremely long and very flexible snout to source
for food in the deep ocean.
Another creature, Idiacanthus sp.(BlackDragon
Fish) stands out with its body covered in
minuscule photophores, which light up when it
is disturbed. Their luminous chin barbel serves
as a lure to attract prey, yet only the females are
supplied with these features. Interestingly, the
males of this particular species can be 10 times
smaller than the females and do not possess
a lure or teeth. For the installation, Wallworth
worked with a series of experts from Great
Britain and Singapore to ensure these creatures
were presented in the best manner possible.
Wallworth says, “Hidden/Depths is a tribute to
the wonders that exist in the deep ocean, those
that we know, those we have yet to encounter. I
hope the glimpse it offers into this other-worldy
environment will remind as we are much to protect
as much to discover. This is not another world, it
is the one, we have to share with the creatures of
the deep.”
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
19
© 2002 MBARI
FEATURES
06
07
06
Careproctus longifilis
(Threadfin snailfish) has a
face perforated with large
sensory pores.
07
Riftia pachyptila (Giant
tube worm) has no eyes,
no mouth, no obvious
organs for ingesting food
or secreting waste.
20
MUHIBAH
© 2003 MBARI
08
Jelly Benthocodon sp. is
distinguished by its myriad
tentacles (between 1,000
and 2,000).
© 2002 MBARI
08
Honor Harger, Executive Director of
ArtScience Museum, added, “The Deep
uses both art and science to shed light
on the deepest parts of our ocean, which
have long been a mystery to many. In
order to address the critical environmental
challenges that the ocean faces, we need
both the emotional connections created
through art, and the understanding
generated by science. That is why we
commissioned Lynette Wallworth to
create Hidden/Depths. Lynette is at the
forefront of art and science practice
internationally, having created several
exquisite artworks that give visitors
emotional encounters with the ocean.
We are thrilled to present her latest work,
which is a truly striking installation that
skillfully weaves scientific discoveries
from the deep sea into a stunning,
interactive display.”
The Deep curator, Claire Nouvian, says,
“There’s a vast number of astounding
creatures living deep beneath the sea, and
it’s both exciting and humbling to think about
how many more of them we have yet to
discover. Hopefully The Deep will bring to our
attention the beauty that surrounds us and
the possibility that if we don’t act now, there
may be nothing left to discover in the future.”
In conjunction with the exhibition, there
are also a wide-range of programmes and
activities being offered for audiences of
all ages. From fact-filled guided tours to
fascinating storytelling, creative hands-on
workshops to arts and crafts, the activities
have been designed to enhance visitors’
journey through the realm of the deep sea.
The Deep runs until October 27, 2015.
Royal Brunei Airlines flies Singapore 2x daily.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
21
M O RO
B EL B E
N
O
U
K
K
R
O
A
M
FEATURES
O
Bookmark
Melbourne
Get the fine print on the
best nooks and corners for
lovers of the written word.
Words JEFFREY LIM
22
MUHIBAH
Visions of Victoria
K
K
R
O
A
M
M O RO
01
01
Melbourne has
the highest
concentration
of bookshops
and publishers in
Australia.
Melbourne is a page-turner for the literary-loving traveller.
As the world’s second only official City of Literature by
UNESCO, Melbourne prides itself on its literary heritage. The
city is home to some of Australia’s greatest writers, has the
largest publishing sector in Australia, a successful culture of
independent bookselling, a healthy reading/writing culture,
and an engaging calendar of literary events.
One such event is the recently concluded Melbourne Writers
Festival which takes place every year. Keynote speakers in the
past included British actor, director and writer, Simon Callow,
and prolific Melbourne-born writer and journalist, Germaine
Greer. A contingent of heavyweight editorial staff from ‘The
New Yorker’ magazine have also spoken at different events
and a series of walking tours discovering the history and
diversity of Melbourne’s literary and arts culture all contribute
to an inspiring overall programme.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
23
FEATURES
Visions of Victoria
02
24
MUHIBAH
B EL B E
K UN
K
R
O
A
M
The Melbourne Writers Festival came on the heels of the
popular Emerging Writers Festival, one of the city’s most
influential events, that celebrates creativity and innovation
while nurturing diverse talents and voice across Australia. The
festival has also made possible The Digital Writers’ Festival, an
online-first writers’ festival dedicated to celebrating the work
of Australian writers and fostering new relationships through
collaboration between writers, with interactive live-streamed
discussions between some of Australia’s and the world’s best
authors, reviewers, editors, and general publishing community.
Melbourne’s readers are voracious. More people borrow more
books from local libraries in Melbourne than anywhere else
in Australia. Reading groups are also extremely popular; the
Ivanhoe Reading Circle, which is Australia’s oldest book group,
has met continuously since the 1920s.
At anytime of year, book-loving visitors can inhale the nostalgia
and pen and ink at the State Library of Victoria. A magnificent
19th-century building in inner-city Melbourne, the library
houses more than two million books, hundreds of thousands
of pictures, newspapers, maps, manuscripts and multimedia
materials – all reflecting the culture of Victoria over the past
150 years. The La Trobe Reading Room, with its majestic
domed ceiling, is a must-do on any ‘lit-tourist’ itinerary.
03
02
The State Library’s
collections include
over two million
books, newspapers,
pictures, maps and
other references.
Melbourne Writers Festival
03
Australia’s finest
literary celebration,
the Melbourne
Writers Festival.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
25
Ben King/Visions of Victoria
FEATURES
04
26
MUHIBAH
B EL B E
K UN
K
R
O
A
M
05
The Wheeler Centre
is a hub and home
for writers.
Inside the library is the state-of-the-art Wheeler Centre,
Australia’s first centre for books, writing and ideas. Opened
in 2010, The Centre brings together writers and literary
organisations such as Writers Victoria, Express Media, the
Australian Poetry Centre, and hosts a number of literary events
throughout the year.
.The rise in online book sales and demise of some of the
larger retail book chains has meant a revival of independent
bookshops for Melbourne. Some of the best include Embiggen,
Hill of Content, The Paperback Store, Metropolis and Kay
Craddock Antiquarian Booksellers. There are also specialised
bookstores such as Books for Cooks, the Travellers Bookstore,
Artisan Books and The Haunted Bookshop.
Book browsing is hungry work and Melbourne’s famous cafe
and coffee culture does not fail to deliver on suitable places
to retreat and refuel. Mr Tulk at the State Library, the Moat
Bar and Cafe underneath the Wheeler Centre; or the Journal
cafe, inside Melbourne’s City Library offer the most convenient
eats for readers. Other cafes with bookish bents include 1000
£ Bend, a hybrid city venue that combines a cafe, exhibition
space and cinema in an old garage; Manchester Press down a
cool city laneway; the League of Honest Coffee; or the Reading
Room at Victoria University’s Footscray campus.
Visitors wanting to get the full low-down on Melbourne’s
literary roots should let the locals be their guide. Walking tour
specialist Hidden Secrets is offering Melbourne by the Book
05
The Wheeler Centre
04
Climbing three floors
up to Metropolis
Bookstore is worth it.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
27
FEATURES
Page To Pose
06
28
MUHIBAH
06 & 07
Page to Pose is a
book club with an
asana thrown in
the mix.
Page To Pose
B EL B
O
U
K
R
O
A
M
07
Tour which takes in some of the best-loved bookstores and
significant sites in the city’s publishing, bookselling and literary
history. MelTours offers a similar two-hour Literary Tour of
Melbourne that snakes through laneways and arcades.
Then, there’s Stephanie Sta Maria. A journalist by profession
and a yoga teacher by passion, Stephanie is the creator of
Page To Pose, an unusual series of themed workshops shaped
around books and yoga. Unlike a traditional book club that
features a single book, Page To Pose’s participants bring a book
of their choice based on that workshop’s theme, like courage,
surrender and quiet. The workshop begins in book club style
and then flows into the yoga session where the poses further
reflect the day’s theme.
Since its conception in March this year, Stephanie has brought
Page To Pose to Melbourne’s libraries, community houses
and business events where it has sparked conversations and
connections. But what truly delights her is being able to bring
yoga to non-practitioners and adding more books to their
reading list.
Royal Brunei Airlines flies Melbourne daily.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
29
Exce
FEATURES
30
Abod
MUHIBAH
ellent
Extravagant South
East Asia hotels
that range from
palace-like resorts
to forest hideaways
to guarantee a
memorable getaway.
des
Words ANIS RAMLI
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
31
FEATURES
Hist
Historical
Homestead
137 Pillars House,
Chiang Mai, Thailand
This elegant 1889 property once
belonged to Louis Leonowens, son of
Anna (of Anna and the King movie fame).
It is no surprise then that the hotel
strives to offer a personal home-awayfrom-home feel with its rooms and
grounds. Rooms are spacious with
private balconies. Some have fourposter or super-king beds with indoor
and outdoor showers. For a splurge,
the two ground-floor Louis Leonowens
Pool Suites will make you feel totally at
home. Laze away the afternoons by the
25-metre lap pool surrounded by a lush
vertical plant wall. It’s a great hideaway
in busy Chiang Mai that blends nostalgic
with historic Thai architecture.
32
MUHIBAH
t rical
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
33
FEATURES
34
MUHIBAH
cean
nside
Oceanside
Opulence
Nusa Dua
Beach Hotel & Spa,
Bali, Indonesia
A sophisticated oceanfront property,
the sprawling Nusa Dua Beach Hotel
& Spa is an excellent showcase of
authentic Balinese heritage and culture.
The resort has welcomed kings and
queens, presidents, and other dignitaries
over the years. Designed to resemble
a Balinese palace, it combines regal
presence with warm tropical hospitality.
The three outdoor pools and a private
beach are just amazing. Guests can soak
in all things Balinese with the resort’s inhouse activities such as Balinese dance
classes, the art of Balinese beauty rituals,
coconut weaving and fruit carving. Rooms
range from comfortable to extravagant,
including one that was previously
reserved only for royalty.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
35
FEATURES
Traditional
Tranquility
Angkor Village
Resort & Spa,
Siem Reap, Cambodia
Styled like a traditional Cambodian
village, Angkor Village Resort is an
enchanting tropical oasis just minutes
away from Siem Reap city centre.
The grounds boast of an amazing
landscape dotted with big old trees, water
ponds with lilies and flowers while the
hotel’s pool winds like a river through the
tropical gardens. The main building is a
stunning and traditional Khmer wooden
structure, while rooms are designed
cottage-like to further provide guests the
Khmer aesthetics and feel.
36
MUHIBAH
Trad
diti nal
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
37
Italian
FEATURES
38
MUHIBAH
Italian
Opulence
The Reverie Saigon,
Vietnam
Discover Italian opulence at this hotel
that wows the senses with eye-popping
interiors. Stepping into its many-styled
rooms is like stumbling into a Prada
advert with interiors that range from
modern sophistication to classical
European and whimsically sassy. Four
of Italy’s leading furniture designers
– Provasi, Colombostile, Giorgetti and
Visionnaire – have lent their legendary
talents to design the hotel’s spaces,
rooms and suites. Further decadence
is when you can request a butler or
private chef and get a lift in a Bentley
or Rolls-Royce, which are among the
house cars. It’s all about glamorous
lifestyle at this property.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
39
FEATURES
Eco Glam
The Datai Langkawi,
Malaysia
Jet-setters looking for jungle luxury will
find no complaints here. The Datai offers
peaceful privacy amid an exquisite virgin
rainforest through its 124 secluded villas,
each leading down to a private bay and
the hotel’s white sand beach. In-room
decor matches its lush surrounding
with polished dark wood floors and
beige-upholstered furniture. The Villa
Hutan Datai is a Malay-style villa on stilts
offering four bedrooms surrounding a
15m-long central pool and an outdoor
bar/barbecue area. You can further
commune with nature at the onsite spa
that offers exquisite rainforest-inspired
menu in open-air wooden villas.
40
MUHIBAH
Ec
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
41
Design
FEATURES
42
MUHIBAH
ner
Designer
Den
Naumi Hotel,
Singapore
If you want customised living, then
Naumi is for you. In compact-living
Singapore, the hotel cleverly sets out
to provide guests an oasis of serenity
and top-notch service. It may appear to
be cramped from the outside, but once
you step in, you’ll see Naumi triumphing
in design. Rooms are conceptual and
unique; take inspiration from the cool
abodes – some contemporary, others
arty – to recreate at home as everything
from the toiletries to the mattress
and bathrobe is for sale. Service is
personalised to a fault. Staff will go out
of their way to make you feel at home.
Perfect for long-term vacations or even
a staycation.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
43
FEATURES
Legendary
Luxurious
The Peninsula Manila,
The Philippines
The Peninsula brand is synonymous
with refined and personalised service,
and The Peninsula Manila does not
disappoint. The highest standards of
luxury will define your stay. Rooms are
equipped with signature tech-savvy
amenities unique to the Pen brand
and if you can tear yourself away from
these havens for comfort, the Peninsula
Academy programmes are stellar
examples of how the hotel strives to
provide a peek into the local culture.
Take advantage of Burda, the local
hand embroidery art; a personalised
tour of Intramuros or an in depth look
at the old houses at Taal town.
44
MUHIBAH
Lege
endary
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
45
FEATURES
DRAWING
THE
DEVOUT
Malaysia emerges as a favourite destination to
combine Islamic conferences and a halal getaway.
Words ANIS RAMLI Images TOURISM MALAYSIA
46
MUHIBAH
01
Malaysia is becoming a key fixture on the international
Islamic lecture circuit as more and more notable
speakers pencil in major cities such as Kuala Lumpur
and Penang on their speaking calendars. Interestingly,
speakers of the calibre of Zimbabwe’s Mufti Ismail
Menk, Jamaican-born Dr Bilal Philips and British Sheikh
Abdurraheem Green aren’t just drawing the faithful
of Malaysia, but also devout English-speaking and
affluent Muslims from across the region who shuttle in
on budget and full-fare airlines.
In the last calendar month, Malaysia has hosted some
of the biggest and most notable events such as The
Straight Path Convention, Ilm Fest 2015, Journey
of Faith and, in Ramadhan 2014, a whole month of
lectures on “Getting to Know the Companions of
Muhammad” by the respected scholar Mufti Menk.
These events are always well publicised and attended
by a full house. What’s even more interesting is that
conference audiences come from far and wide. Zalina
Omar, manager of Dakwah Corner Bookstore (DCB),
organisers of The Straight Path Convention says, “It
was very encouraging to note that among our audience
were representatives of over 10 countries.” Some came
from as far as the Philippines and Australia.
02
01
The availability of
mosques and prayer
places across Malaysia
attracts many Muslim
visitors to the country.
02
Malaysia’s events
calendar has seen a
growth in Islamicthemed conventions.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
47
FEATURES
48
MUHIBAH
03
04
Zalina is not alone in noticing that Englishmedium international Islamic conferences are
becoming popular not just with Malaysians, but
overseas guests as well. Laila Hassan, who’s
company LightUp7 was tasked to organise the
first international conference for Sri Lankan’s The
Daily Reminder in Malaysia says, “I believe the
public’s gravitation towards these events is due
to its content that seek to educate Muslims on
authentic knowledge untainted by cultural bias and
traditions.” Today’s Muslims, she says, are more
aware of the importance to understand Islam based
on the real teachings of the Holy Qur’an and Prophet
Muhammad’s (peace and blessings be upon him)
exemplary behaviours and manners.
Observers opine that this sudden reawakening
could perhaps be a result of the rise and continuous
perpetuation of Islamophobia in the West and
around the world. As more Muslims realise that they
have to take a stand and mobilise the authentic
teachings of Islam – which is a religion of peace
– and transform the negative mindset, these new
platforms for Islamic education provide the means
to remind and educate.
03
Nature enthusiasts will
find lots to discover in
the country.
04
Sheikh Saeed Rageah
at The Straight Path.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
49
FEATURES
50
MUHIBAH
05
In fact, scholars such as Menk, Philips, Green and many
others have been singled out for their contemporary
Islamic views and approach, while maintaining Islam’s
authentic teachings. This may also explain why some
of these events have also attracted audiences of
other faiths. At a conference entitled “One God, Why
So Many Religions?” last year, organiser Multiracial
Reverted Muslims (MRM) reported a wide range of
people in the audience that included various races and
religious backgrounds. MRM’s Vice President, MaryAnn Gooi explains, “We chose that particular theme
because we felt that it was important for people to
understand the message that Islam carries – that it is a
faith that unites humanity regardless of race or status.
We also wanted to provide a platform for people of
different faiths to clear misconceptions and have their
questions on Islam answered by an expert in the field.”
Interestingly, the conference’s speakers, Dr Bilal Philips
and Malaysian scholar Sheikh Hussain Yee, are both
reverts to Islam, further lending an authentic voice to
the event’s purpose.
In addition, these events are not just food for the
spiritual soul. They also feature a secular dimension
– notably, packaging speaking engagements to
boost a specific segment of the halal and Islamic
tourism market. Linda Harris from Perth purposely
arrived in Malaysia a week prior to The Daily Reminder
Conference that took place 29-30 August. During that
time, she journeyed to Penang to admire its pre-war
architecture and then to Terengganu to get acquainted
with the gentle giants of Tasik Kenyir’s elephant
sanctuary. She says, “I was super excited about the
event itself and the speaker line-up was impressive. It
was not difficult to make that decision to come here
for a short holiday and include a session where I can
increase my knowledge in Islam.”
06
07
08
05
Mosques have also become major
tourist attractions.
06
Mufti Menk is known for his
humorous and broad-minded
lectures.
07
Dr Bilal Philips and Sheikh Hussain
Yee are unique personalities in the
Islamic world who are popular for
their simple yet insightful talks.
08
Mini bazaars at conventions create
a festive air.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
51
FEATURES
52
MUHIBAH
09
10
09
Malaysia’s untouched
rainforests are among
some of South East
Asia’s best.
10
Halal food choices are
aplenty in Malaysia.
Malaysia as a brand has increased its efforts in
developing its destination products and visitor
experiences, especially in the Muslim travel sector.
In marketing itself as a preferred destination for
Islamic events and conferences, Malaysia continues
to create new opportunities for innovative services
and processes while meeting planner and audience
perceptions about value and experience. The
presence of these attributes – halal food and
services, accessibility of prayer places, a tolerant
culture that generally embraces a gentle and
warm etiquette and mannerism – coupled with
competitively priced lodgings, pristine nature,
beautiful beaches and UNESCO-awarded cities
and sites – help to enhance conference attendee
experience.
Internet-savvy travellers also help drive the trend
of this particular market forward. Facebook,
Pinterest, Twitter and Weibo are often used as a
communications platform to promote the events
and create interest. And, with customers increasingly
seeking a personalised travel experience, combining
conferences with travel appears to be a winning
combination. Particularly for the devout Muslims.
Royal Brunei Airlines flies Kuala Lumpur 2x daily.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
53
FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI
Herit
age
Maritime
A new museum reflects the
maritime culture and history
of Brunei and adds credit to
its past community.
54
MUHIBAH
Warisan
Maritim
Sebuah muzium baru yang mencerminkan
budaya dan sejarah maritim Brunei kini
menjadi mercu tanda penghargaan
negara untuk generasi terdahulu.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
55
FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI
In 1997, a routine geophysical survey by Elf
Petroleum (now known as TotalFinaElf) discovered
a shipwreck 40 kilometres off the coast of Brunei.
Preliminary research done by the Brunei Museums
Department and Départment des Recherches
Archeolelogiues Subaquatiques et Sous-Marines
(DRASSM), involving 130 experts from different
countries including Brunei, uncovered over 13,000
artefacts from the wreck originating from Thailand,
Vietnam, and China.
The discovery soon was known as The Brunei
Shipwreck, and its finding gave a glimpse of Brunei’s
maritime history that demonstrated Brunei’s role
in maritime trades with other countries about
500 years ago. The ship was thought to have sunk
between late 15th to early 16th century, and about
50 years after the great Chinese explorer, Zheng
He’s expedition.
56
MUHIBAH
Today, many of the contents from the
shipwreck are proudly displayed at
the newly opened Brunei Darussalam
Maritime Museum. Among the items
exhibited are the Chinese blue
and white porcelain, likely made in
Jingdezhen, China, “the porcelain
capital of the world”. Jingdezhen
produced porcelain for the emperor’s
household and these were often
referred to as ‘Imperial ware’.
Pada tahun 1997, pengkaji geofizik Elf Petroleum (kini dikenali
sebagai TotalFinaElf) menemui sebuah bangkai kapal di dasar
laut, 40 kilometer dari pesisir pantai Brunei. Kajian awal yang
dikendali oleh Jabatan Muzium Brunei serta Départment des
Recherches Archeolelogiues Subaquatiques et Sous-Marines
(DRASSM) melibatkan 130 orang pakar dari pelbagai negara
termasuk Brunei, berjaya menemui lebih 13,000 artifak berasal
dari Thailand, Vietnam, dan China di lokasi tersebut.
Penemuan ini dikenali sebagai The Brunei Shipwreck, dan
ia mencerahkan sejarah maritim Brunei dengan bukti kukuh
akan peranan penting negara dalam perdagangan maritim
antarabangsa 500 tahun lalu. Kapal yang dijumpai itu
dipercayai karam pada lewat kurun ke-15 atau awal kurun
ke-16, lebih kurang 50 tahun selepas ekspedisi penjelajah
China terkenal, Zheng He.
Hari ini, kebanyakkan penemuan
tersebut dipamerkan dengan
bangganya di Muzium Maritim Brunei
Darussalam yang baru dibuka. Antara
artifak yang dipamerkan adalah
tembikar porselin biru dan putih
dipercayai diperbuat di Jingdezhen,
China yang dikenali sebagai
pusat porselin dunia. Jingdezhen
menghasilkan produk porselin yang
digunakan oleh keluarga maharaja
China, dikenali sebagai ‘Imperial ware’.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
57
FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI
These, along with other salvaged items from
The Brunei Shipwreck, such as glass bracelets,
beads, ivory bronze and metal objects, make
up the museum’s permanent collection. They
help tell the compelling story of Brunei as a
past trading port, how it built the community
and the growth of the Sultanate.
The museum’s other gallery includes an
introduction to Kota Batu and the man-made
island, Pulau Terendak. The latter was a
significant archaeological discovery, as it gave
historians an understanding of its life at the
heart of the trade routes through which trade
from Arab, Europe and China entered Brunei.
A collection of trading ship replicas and local
boats and water vessels are displayed here.
There is also a section on Brunei handicrafts,
including kain tenunan (woven fabric),
representing the various handicrafts locally
made that would have been part of the trade
with visiting ships.
58
MUHIBAH
Barang-barangan berharga ini, serta artifak-artifak
lain yang ditemui dari The Brunei Shipwreck,
seperti gelang tangan kaca, manik, dan objek-objek
diperbuat dari gading, gangsa dan besi, merupakan
sebahagian dari pameran kekal di muzium ini.
Objek-objek bersejarah ini menjadi bukti kepada
kisah menarik perkembangan Brunei dari sebuah
pelabuhan dagangan purba hingga menjadi sebuah
Kesultanan yang maju pada hari ini.
Galeri-galeri lain di muzium ini turut mempamerkan
pengenalan kepada Kota Batu dan pulau buatan
manusia, Pulau Terendak. Pulau ini merupakan
penemuan kaji purba yang berharga kerana
memberikan para sejarawan gambaran lebih jelas
tentang laluan dagangan penting menghubungkan
Brunei dengan pedagang-pedagang Arab, Eropah
dan China
Koleksi replika-replika kapal dagang dan bot
tempatan turut dipamerkan di muzium ini. Juga
terdapat pameran khas untuk kraftangan Brunei,
termasuk kain tenunan, antara barangan tempatan
yang dahulunya digunakan dalam urusniaga
dengan kapal-kapal dagangan yang tiba di
pelabuhan.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
59
FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI
Presently, a temporary exhibition,
Sailing Deep Into The Sea, is being
held. Showcasing the maritime Silk Road
connecting Brunei and China over 2,000
years ago, it is jointly organised by the
Quanzhou Maritime Museum of China
and the Brunei Maritime Museum. The
exhibition features some 130 exhibits
– mostly from Quanzhou, China and
include porcelain, gravestones, ship
models, ancient coins, historical images
and documents.
The museum is open to the public from 9am to 5pm on
Saturday to Thursday and on Friday from 9am to 11.30am
and then 2.30pm to 5pm. For further information, contact
the Brunei Darussalam Maritime Museum at 224 0083.
60
MUHIBAH
Pada ketika ini, sebuah pameran
sementara berjudul Sailing Deep
Into The Sea, sedang berlangsung.
Pameran ini menonjolkan laluan Jalan
Sutera maritim yang menghubungkan
Brunei dan China lebih 2,000 tahun
lalu, anjuran bersama Muzium
Maritim Quanzhou dari China dengan
Muzium Maritim Brunei. Ia melibatkan
130 barang pameran menarik –
kebanyakkannya dari Quanzhou, China
termasuk porselin, batu nesan, replika
kapal, duit purba, serta imej-imej dan
dokumen-dokumen bersejarah.
Muzium dibuka kepada umum dari 9 pagi hingga 5 petang
pada hari Sabtu hingga Khamis, dan 9 pagi hingga 11.30
pagi diikuti 2.30 petang hingga 5 petang setiap Jumaat.
Untuk maklumat lanjut, hubungi Muzium Maritim Brunei
Darussalam di talian 224 0083.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
61
LIFESTYLE MOTORING
DRIVING
PLEASURE
The Attrage brings styling and befitting a
next-generation global compact sedan.
62
MUHIBAH
THE BEST FUEL EFFICIENT SEDAN IN ITS CLASS.
Evolved from the current hatchback model, the Mirage, this
Attrage is the current entry level super-budget sedan in the
Mitsubishi lineup. The Attrage still houses the same multiple
award winning fuel-efficiency hardware. Ranked #1 in Cars.
com’s “New Cars for Penny Pinchers”, the Automotive
Science Group “Best All-Around Performance” and “Best
Environmental Performance” in the Mini-Compact Class
and the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy
“Greenest Vehicles”, to name a few, the Attrage has
everything you seek in a compact sedan.
Designed by the Mitsubishi designers to look more agile
and dynamic, it still retains its practicality with just the right
touch of elegance for a class-above compact model. The
Attrage incorporates high-tensile steel lightweight rigid
body elements that contribute to its eco performance
enhancement. No surprise that the Attrage line has been
given the accolade of 4-star ASEAN NCAP Grand Prix
Awards in 2014. All the bells and whistles in regards to
safety comes as standard which includes dual airbags,
safety belt with pre-tensioners, RISE (Reinforced Impact
Safety Evolution) body construction, 4ABS brakes system,
EBD Brake assist and all the works.
Class-leading fuel efficiency is one of the features that set the
Attrage apart from its competitors. It boasts a whopping 21
kilometres of road travelling with just one litre of unleaded fuel,
thanks to the state-of-the-art 1.2 litre DOHC 12-valve MIVEC
setup, Mitsubishi’s current proprietary engine. Coupled with
the INVECS-II CVT transmission system, you will enjoy superior
economy and comfort in all driving conditions. There is also a
nifty “ECO” display which illuminates whenever you operate the
accelerator pedal in an eco-friendly way that encourages good
driving habits. The Attrage body also lends a hand to fuel saving.
It is designed in such a way that the streamline shape will slip
through wind resistance easily, in turn lowers cabin noise and
increases handling stability. It is no surprise then that the Attrage
was recently dubbed ‘The Stylish Eco Sedan’ boasting superior
best-in-its-class fuel efficiency.
Inside, passengers are welcomed into a comfortable space
with extra room and practical designs. The Attrage is equipped
with a standard push button switch to start and stop the car. In
addition, the KOS (Keyless Operation System) lets you access
the car just with a touch of a button on the driver’s door. The
simple yet stylish interior surrounds you and your passengers
with quality materials. Smooth flowing lines and a seamless fit
and finish convey quality craftsmanship. Soft yet supportive
seating, thoughtful amenities and attractive features like silver
accents further enhance driving pleasure. In the new Attrage,
travelling is always a relaxing and enjoyable experience. The
people-centred design puts people first; refined to every last
detail to create an interior that maximises passenger space.
In short, the Attrage is your ultimate budget non-hybrid car.
From its phenomenal fuel efficiency to low running costs and
economical size tyres, you surely can’t ask for more. In Brunei,
the Mitsubishi Attrage comes in two trims: the highly featured
premium and basic featured standard trims.
Call GHK Motors at 2423423/0882 (BSB) or 3335740/6372 (KB) for further vehicle
information.
GHK Motors is currently running THE GREAT HARI RAYA GIVEAWAYS! campaign until
30 September, 2015.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
63
LIFESTYLE IN PERSON
BUMBLING
NO MORE
Writer/architect/illustrator/musician/part-time
stand-up comedian, Tom Schmidt takes a breather
from his multiple roles to speak to MUHIBAH on his
award-winning Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series.
You set out your Bumbling Traveller Adventure Series
as a platform to promote cultural and environmental
awareness. Were you able to get feedback from your
readers on how the books have impacted them?
I’ve received some great book reviews and feedback
from various readers over the past few years –
fortunately, it’s been overwhelming positive. Some
readers who live in the places that I’ve written about are
surprised to learn things about their country that they
never knew. I feel that sometimes we travel the world, but
rarely explore our own backyard. I’m always shocked to
learn things about my hometown that have been written
by other travellers – particularly writers from different
cultures – as they tend to look at things with fresh eyes
and a very different perspective.
You also said Bumbling began as a booklet for your
grandmother. Was she a traveller also and do you still
keep her in mind when you write your books?
I do often think of my late grandmother when I write
my books. Before I was born, her family travelled across
the US extensively by car. However, I remember her
best as more of an armchair traveller in her later years;
she was constantly reading books that would take her
to some faraway place. She was always very curious
and inquisitive about different places in the world and
different cultures, and as I was growing up, I think some
of those attributes rubbed off on me. After I returned
from some of my backpacking adventures in my younger
years, I produced small handmade booklets for my
grandmother, other family members and friends to
convey my travel experiences – so I wouldn’t need to
repeat the same story a hundred times.
Tell us the inspiration behind some of your characters.
Many of the characters in my books are hybrids of
actual travellers who I had backpacked with, or met
over the years. I’ve found that as a solo traveller, some
64
MUHIBAH
of the people with whom I’ve travelled are often more
interesting and entertaining than the places that I’ve
visited – sometimes your fellow traveller can either
make or break a segment of your journey. I am always
amazed at the variety of people of all ages who are out
there on their own, roaming the world. I’ve travelled with
people ranging from rambunctious teenagers on school
holidays, to an 80-something year old British woman
who was bravely backpacking on her own across the
world. It’s exciting to travel with people from different
cultures, and who have different vocations and interests
– a friendly chat during a 10-minute bus ride with a
fellow backpacker from another country can open up an
entire new world, and radically change one’s perspective.
I’m still always amazed at the kindness of strangers and
their willingness to help out wayward travellers.
Were there any lessons you’ve learnt after writing
three volumes of the series?
One thing I’ve found is that a writer can never do
justice to a place in just a few pages within a book.
Every destination has positive and negative attributes,
and so much history and depth – it’s always difficult
to choose what aspects to write about. One of the
most important lessons I discovered in the writing
process was that my detailed travel journals and in-situ
sketches provided excellent source material for my
books, and helped me remember my first impressions
of a place, which we often tend to forget as time
passes. As I reflect upon writing about some of the
adventures contained in the book series – which are
largely autobiographical – I feel like I’m lucky to still
be alive! The biggest lesson learned was that I should
have taken many more photos of the places that I
visited in my earlier, pre-digital camera years, despite
the cost and challenges of developing film over an
extended trip. The world is changing so rapidly; if we
don’t document it, things will be lost forever.
Tom Schmidt’s BUMBLING
TRAVELLER ADVENTURE
SERIES books can be found
in bookstores.
MPH members get 10% discount.
Alternatively, enjoy free delivery*
when you purchase on:
www.mphonline.com
* Terms & conditions apply.
In the age of Kindle and e-publishing, how do
you manage to stay relevant?
I think that with richly illustrated and hand
drawn books published in physical form, there
is still something “tangible” which readers
can hold in their hands, appreciate, and can
become a unique addition to their bookshelf.
As an example, I also produce limited edition
hand drawn holiday cards that I send to family
and friends through the post each year. I think
that in the current age of e-publishing, there is
simply too much “noise” and electronic materials
competing for our attention, and we eventually
get desensitised. When my holiday cards arrive
by snail mail, they get noticed and are hung up
on people’s refrigerators or office cubicles … and
surprisingly, they often stay there for years.
As a traveller yourself, what are the things you
seek out when you visit a new place? How do
you research a place to go beyond the mustsees/dos for something new?
When I travel, I try to seek out the more obscure
and bizarre sights whenever possible. As an
architect, I love historic architectural and
archaeological sites. I also typically try to get a
flavour of the local housing, how people live, and
how things are constructed – which sometimes
takes me into less visited neighbourhoods or
traditional villages. Sometimes, I intentionally try
to get lost, since it usually results in a memorable
experience. Like many other travellers, I also try
to get recommendations of good places to eat
and things to see and do from the local people
who live there. I think the key is to research
as much as possible before a trip, but leave
the gadgets at home, unplug, and actually go
back to the basics of talking with people and
asking for directions and local advice. I also
like to leave enough free time in my itinerary to
enjoy unexpected discoveries. I see too many
travellers who have every hour of their trip
programmed, plugged into their headphones in
a private world of music, and slavishly following
the GPS on their smartphones to the next tourist
attraction while tweeting – as they miss the
sights and sounds that surround them and the
hidden gems waiting in unexplored back alleys.
Have you started on Series 4? If so, what can
we expect – or what can you share with us
without revealing too much.
Yes, volume 4 of the Bumbling Traveller
Adventure Series is currently under production.
The ending of the third volume hints at the
Himalayan destination where the Bumbling
Travellers might end up, as they get one step
closer to unravelling a lingering mystery that runs
through the entire series. The fourth book will be
published later this year, so stay tuned!
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
65
LIFESTYLE THE BUZZ
WHAT’S
NEW
Highlights
and trends
from around
the globe.
MODEST COVER What could be better than modest clothing
modernised for the 21st century? SHUKR goes beyond the
traditional abayas and jilbabs and combines Shariah principles
with contemporary fashion for clothing produced of the
highest standards. Its product line includes women’s tops,
skirts, dresses, jackets, sportswear and knitwear that are not
just modest, but beautiful and functional. There is also a line of
men’s shirts, trousers, jackets and hats. And here’s why we love
Shukr even more: the company follows fair trade and ethical
labour practices, and applies Islamic financial and investment
principles, avoiding interest-based financing.
www.ShukrClothing.com
SILENT ROLLER Travelling soon?
Check out the Stealth by Heys. Inspired
by aircraft design, the Stealth is the first
ever luggage with retractable wheels
that safely stow away when not in use.
This revolutionary system also allows
for the luggage ground clearance to
be transformed into additional packing
space. Other features include a 100%
polycarbonate shell, a fully-lined
interior with compression straps, and a
handsome aircraft-inspired design.
heys.com
BUCKET LIST Jackie Onassis made famous
the iconic bucket bag by Saddler’s Union.
That heritage design continues today, with
the company relying on classic quality and
timeless elegance for its leathergoods. Plenty
to choose from the line, including retro rustic
wallets, belts, briefcases and even moccasins.
saddlersunion.com
66
MUHIBAH
SUN SMART Looking for that sunscreen
for the entire family? Babo Botanicals Daily
Sheer SPF 40 For Face Sunscreen is perfect
for babies, kids and grown-ups, too! Fueled by
the power of plant science, Babo infuses the
sunscreen with 100% active mineral (nonnano) ingredients such as organic aloe vera
and powerful anti-oxidants like white tea.
babobotanicals.com
iherb.com
BACKYARD SCIENCE This highperformance creamy moisturiser with
a sweet fragrance of vintage gardenia
will lift you to holiday dreams and make
your spirit sing. Antipodes’ Delight Hand
and Body Cream has a 98% natural
formulation, including macadamia nut
and the revolutionary Vinanza Grape®.
antipodesnature.com
NEON RUN The Swiss brand Urwerk is making one
of their most appealing timepiece collections even
better. The popular UR-105 TA “Turbine Automatic
Knight Watches” now extends the range with new
visual styles. With an automatic winding movement,
the model now comes in neon orange and lemon,
making a stylish contrast against the black PEEK cap.
urwerk.com
RED FLAG Dinner
parties come alive
with the Alcazar
line by Christopher
Vine. This red
statement pieces
will be the envy of
your friends, and
we love how the jug
can double up as a
vase and the bowls
make decorative
pieces. Vine’s
homewares are
always known for its
creativity and style.
christophervine.com.au
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
67
Alila Ubud
LIFESTYLE TAKE 5
Isle
Style
Bali remains a sleek sanctuary
for surfers, shoppers and
solace-loving vacationers.
68
MUHIBAH
Spa Village Tembok Bali
SEE
Any of Bali’s traditional arts and crafts classes
are a great way to immerse yourself in
the culture. Many resorts and hotels provide
complimentary passes to these short workshops.
Discover coconut weaving, making herbal tonics,
or a trek through Bali’s picturesque padi fileds.
You’ll be glad for the extra skill.
DO
Alila Ubud
Catch a surf. Thousands of
miles of the island’s coastline
get consistent, powerful, swells.
Here’s where you get the
best waves on earth – Echo
Beach, but with its rocky reefs
below, it will certainly test your
confidence. Other popular spots
are Padma Beach and anywhere
along the beaches of Kuta.
SHOP
You are good with anything
that is handmade. Our
personal favourite are the spa
and beauty products made
from local herbs and spices.
From massage oils to coldpressed soaps and the boreh
(a scrub pack), there is plenty
to get you hunting.
STAY
Alila Ubud
Ubud – Bali’s artistic and cultural
centre – is Bali in a nutshell. A stay at
Alila Ubud’s hilltop boutique resort
gives you an enchanting view of
Ubud’s valley and the Ayung River. Just
56 rooms make this property exclusive,
and don’t leave without trying any of
the spa’s magical treatments.
Royal Brunei Airlines flies Bali 4x weekly.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
69
LIFESTYLE TRAVEL DIARY
WHAT’S
ON
1-31
Oct
MALAYSIA
INTERNATIONAL
GOURMET FESTIVAL
A world of adventure and
new experiences await you
when you fly with Royal Brunei
Airlines. Make your trip even
more memorable with free
flights, seat upgrades and
other privileges with Royal
Skies, our frequent flyer
programme.
Get your tastebuds tingling and
savour fine dining at value-formoney prices. MIGF returns with
the theme Galactic Chefs! 2015:
A Food Odyssey at 25 of the
country’s best restaurants. Enjoy
special menus by Malaysia’s Master
Chefs and indulge in a world tour
of gourmet and fine dining.
www.migf.com
Not yet a member? Register
on www.flyroyalbrunei.com/
royalskies
MALAYSIA
BRUNEI DARUSSALAM
Now til
19
SAILING DEEP INTO THE SEA
The Brunei Maritime Museum is hosting Sailing Deep
Into The Sea, an exhibition featuring some 130 artefacts
from the Maritime Silk Road connecting Brunei and
China over 2,000 years ago. Also known as the Maritime
Porcelain Road, it was a passage for economic and cultural
exchanges between ancient China and many other parts of
the world. Discover porcelain, ancient coins, and historical
documents that once represented this ancient route.
The Brunei Maritime Museum at +673 224 0083.
Oct
SINGAPORE
2015 FORMULA 1
SINGAPORE AIRLINES
SINGAPORE GRAND PRIX
Located in the heart of the city, the Marina Bay Street
Circuit is an exhilarating combination of Formula
One® and entertainment extravaganza taking place
after sunset. With support race Porsche Carrera
Cup Asia, and international sensations Pharrell
Williams, Maroon 5, and Bon Jovi, fans will never find
themselves with a dull moment!
www.singaporegp.sg
18-20
Sep
70
MUHIBAH
Han Yangling Museum
INDONESIA
THE RISE OF THE
CELESTIAL EMPIRE:
CONSOLIDATION
AND CULTURAL
EXCHANGE DURING
THE HAN DYNASTY
25-27
Sep
ANIME FESTIVAL ASIA INDONESIA 2015
Anime Festival Asia Indonesia brings a slice of Japanese
pop culture direct from Tokyo to Jakarta International
Expo. Expect Japan’s top talents and latest anime
offerings at this festival. There will be popular guest
cosplayers, special guest appearances, and you know, the
usual hype we all love about anime!
animefestival.asia
To mark the 60th anniversary
since the discovery of the
Lei Cheng Uk Han Tomb, the
Hong Kong Museum of History
will be exhibiting around 162
artefacts gathered from about
40 cultural institutions all
over China. The focal point of
this exhibition will be on the
formation of the Han dynasty,
the social life of the Han
people, and cultural exchange
with the West during the
period, with special emphasis
on the development of the
Lingnan region.
www.hanempire.hk
Now til
HONG KONG
UNITED KINGDOM
5
Oct
19&20
Sep
OPEN HOUSE
LONDON
Get ready for some serious
snooping as some of
London’s best buildings
open their doors to the
public. Open House London
offers a unique opportunity
for visitors to see, explore,
and learn more about the
amazing architecture and design
of buildings in London – all for free.
Some notable buildings include
Bank of England, Hackney’s Timber
Buildings, the Tin House, and the
quirky 15 and a Half Consort Road.
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
www.openhouselondon.org.uk
www.sensation.com/dubai
SENSATION
Taking place outdoors, Sensation’s
‘Ocean of White’ is set to rock the
city. The show will transform Meydan
Dubai into a wondrous world of
nocturnal sea life with giant jellyfish
floating over the dancefloor and
fountains spraying water high into the
air. Lovers of house and electronic
music will not want to miss The
World’s Leading Dance Event.
30
Oct
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
71
WELCOME ONBOARD
SELAMAT DATANG
Selamat Datang means
‘Welcome’ in Malay, and your
seamless journey begins here.
Business Class
The Royal Brunei Airlines 787 Dreamliner
Business Class cabin features “Contour” seats
that reclines to a 180 degree flat bed, along
with a plush duvet and larger pillow, offer a
peaceful rest. Each seat is equiped with a 15.4
touchscreen LCD Monitor with Panasonic
eX2 in-flight entertainment system; as well as
in seat power connecter. The Business Class
cabin lavatories are also equipped with bidets
for passengers convenience.
Economy Class Comfort
Royal Brunei Airlines 787 Dreamliner Economy
cabin offers comfortable seats with semiarticulating recline and adjustable headrest,
and with very spacious leg-rooms for
passengers comfort. Each seat is intergrated
with the Eco 9-Inch personal touch screen
monitors filled with great entertainment
content. Each seat also comes with a USB
port as well as shared power supply.
Royal Brunei’s SkyShow Entertainment
system gives passengers a number of
entertainment options throughout their flight.
A library of hit movies, classic Hollywood
films and TV and audio programmes for
all ages are available onboard. Refer to
the Impian entertainment guide located
in the seat pocket in front of you for the
list of movies, TV and audio programmes.
For Business Class seats; the sockets for
earphones and channel/volume remote
control are located in your seat armrest.
Seatback-mounted personal screens are
only available on our Boeing 787s. Elsewhere,
passengers can avail our service, sit back
As Brunei Darussalam’s national carrier, Royal
Brunei Airlines serves not only as the coming
of age of this tiny Sultanate, but today cements
itself as a serious competitor in the region.
MUHIBAH
Cuisine
Everything we serve has been carefully
SkyShow Inflight Entertainment
JOURNEY
THROUGH
THE DECADES
72
and relax with our overhead movie screens.
For more information, please contact your
nearest Royal Brunei Airlines office.
chosen for freshness and flavour. In fact,
there’s nothing you can’t enjoy even when
dining at 35,000 feet. Our award winning
menu has been meticulously created by our
Royal Brunei Catering chefs, combining both
Western and Oriental flavours using the best
seasonal and fresh produce available.
For our Business Class passengers on
long-haul flights, you can now select your
desired meal times. Our ‘Dine upon Request’
service is available throughout the flight up
until 90 minutes before landing. Passengers
on all classes also enjoy our ‘Food Fit to Fly
by’ service menu that features healthier and
lighter meal options, complemented by our
award-winning cabin service from our crew.
1970s
1980s
> The maiden Royal Brunei Airlines
flight to Singapore left Bandar Seri
Begawan on a Boeing 737-200 on
14 May, 1975.
> RB added a Boeing 737, the quick
change convertible aircraft, to its fleet.
This aircraft allowed for either an allpassenger or an all-cargo configuration,
or a combination of both.
> Two Boeing 737 aircraft were put
into service flying five times a week to
Singapore, two times to Hong Kong,
and seven times to Kota Kinabalu.
> Services to Bangkok and Manila
were added.
> RB accepted the delivery of its Boeing
757 aircraft that featured a redesigned
livery combining Brunei’s traditional
royal colours on 16 May, 1986.
Special Meals
Royal Brunei offers a variety of tasty culinary
solutions to suit our passengers’ special
dietary requirements. Special meals can be
ordered when you make your reservation;
please confirm your request at least 24
hours before boarding your flight.
Alcohol-free Environment Policy
Royal Brunei Airlines operates alcohol-free
flights to all destinations.
Hand Luggage
For your safety and comfort, you may store
your hand luggage in the overhead lockers
or under the seat in front of you. Please do
not hesitate to ask our cabin crew for help in
stowing your luggage properly. Be careful when
opening the overhead luggage compartments,
as items dislodged by aircraft movement may
fall on you or fellow passengers.
Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAG)
Various countries have implemented
restrictions on the carriage of liquids,
aerosols and gels in compliance with new
guidelines set by the International Civil
Aviation Organization (ICAO). Passengers
transiting through airports and carrying any
liquids, pastes and gels in containers over
100ml may be asked to dispose of the items
at security checkpoints.
These restrictions may affect your ability to
carry duty-free purchases onboard the aircraft.
Customers are advised to check with duty free
personnel before making their purchases. All
liquids, aerosols and gels must be carried in
containers of no greater than 100ml/3.3oz
capacity (approximately 100gm in weight)
and placed in a transparent, resealable plastic
bag. The plastic bag must be removed from
carry on baggage and presented to security
personnel at the checkpoint for inspection
and separate x-ray screening.
Exceptions to the new regulations are
medicines and dietary supplements needed
during a flight, including baby food. Proof of
need may be required.
Use of Electronic Equipment
Electronic devices such as Citizen’s band (CB)
radio, remote-controlled devices (such as
radio controlled toys), and transmitting devices
that emit radio frequencies are not to be used
at any time during the flight. These devices
1990s
2000s
2010s
> RB took delivery of the first of three leased Boeing 767200ER aircraft in June 1990 and set a long distance world
record for twin-engine commercial airlines.
> RB took delivery of two new Airbus A319 aircraft in August
and September 2003.
> In October 2012, RB launched a rebranding
journey with a new logo and livery.
> Two more Airbus A320s were delivered in December 2003
and January 2004.
> RB launched “A betterfly”, the Boeing 787
Dreamliner and commenced its first commercial
flight from Bandar Seri Begawan to Singapore
on 18 October, 2013, followed by flights to
Dubai and London on 1 December, 2013 and to
Melbourne on 2 April, 2014.
> The delivery of Boeing 767-200ER aircraft enabled RB’s
route to extend to London Gatwick in November 1990.
> Twice-weekly flights to London Heathrow began
in May 1991. The route became a daily service on
1 December, 1996.
> RB employed the use of a Fokker 50 aircraft to service
Miri and Labuan in Malaysia, two destinations that were
significant to the growth of Brunei’s oil and gas industry.
> The opportunity to expand regional connections saw
RB establishing a service to Surabaya in 1997.
> In January 2010, RB introduced Royal Brunei Holidays,
a revamp of its Golden Touch Holidays, which offers
passengers value-for-money holiday packages available
locally and abroad.
> Direct services to Shanghai were re-launched in March 2010.
> RB’s newly-leased Boeing 777-200ER aircraft took off
on its first commercial flight from Bandar Seri Begawan to
London via Dubai in June 2010.
> RB unveiled its new heritage-inspired uniforms
on 21 February, 2014.
> RB commenced four-times weekly flights to Melbourne
in March 2011.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
73
WELCOME ONBOARD
may interfere with the aircraft’s electronic
equipment, compromising aircraft safety and
endangering the lives of passengers and crew.
The following devices may be used on board,
except during take-off, initial climb, approach
and landing; mobile phones (which must be
switched to flight mode), personal computers,
FM receivers, calculators, electronic shavers,
audio and video recorders, hand-held computer
games, and playback devices..
Lithium Batteries
The abundant stored energy that makes
lithium batteries practical also makes them
dangerous when they are not packed and
carried properly. Royal Brunei takes the
initiatives to increase the safety onboard
with the carriage limitations (from industry
initiatives, ICAO and IATA Dangerous Goods
Regulations guidance) to mitigate against
the risks of the hazards.
Low and medium powered rechargeable
batteries in equipment and limited quantity
of spares are recommended as carry on
baggage. All spare units must be in the
original packaging or packed to insulate
the terminals. Medium and large nonrechargeable must be carried as cargo/
freight in accordance with current Dangerous
Goods Regulations. High-Powered batteries
are not permitted onboard passenger aircraft.
Information of safe carriage of lithium
batteries on-board RB flights are also available
at the RB websites www.bruneiair.com.
Non-smoking Policy
Royal Brunei Airlines operates non-smoking
flights to all destinations.
Reconfirmation
Reconfirmation is not required except for
passengers travelling to and from the Middle
East. Please reconfirm your departure flight
at least 72 hours in advance with the local
Royal Brunei Airlines office or your travel
agent. Failure to do so could result in the
cancellation of your reservations.
Online Booking
Fly through the airport. You can now book
online at www.flyroyalbrunei.com, check in
online and print your own electronic ticket
(e-ticket). Online check in is available
24 hours before flight departure and closes
60 minutes before departure time.
Check In
Check in counters at the Brunei International
Airport are open three hours before flight
departure. Passengers are advised to check
in at least two hours before departure to
allow for security and baggage checks.
Check in counters will be closed 45 minutes
before departure, after which no boarding
passes will be issued. Royal Brunei Airlines
also advises its passengers to reach the
boarding gate 20 minutes before the flight
departs to avoid missing their flights.
Passenger Comments
Your comments and suggestions will help us
enhance our services. Please e-mail us at:
[email protected].
BRUNEI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Brunei International Airport’s computerised
passenger and cargo handling facilities
can handle 1.5 million passengers and
50,000 tonnes of cargo a year. Among the
facilities offered at the airport are a prayer
room, telephones and internet services,
restaurants, a viewing gallery and day rooms
for transit passengers who want to rest or
freshen up before their flight.
For customers’ comfort and convenience,
Royal Brunei Airlines’ Service Centre and
SkyLounge are both located on the departure
level. The former is a one-stop centre providing
74
MUHIBAH
services such as reservations, ticketing
and booking of tour packages. Customers
who book online can get their tickets at the
SkyLounge before departure. Royal Skies
members may also redeem their miles here.
For Royal Brunei’s Business Class passengers
and Royal Skies’ Gold and Silver members,
the SkyLounge boasts plush seating for
120 people. Complimentary massage chairs,
shower rooms, ablution areas, and widescreen
plasma televisions are also available.
Duty-free shops offer consumer goods at
competitive prices. There are several outlets,
including a money changer located at the
main departure/transit hall. On sale are
portable electrical goods with international
warranties, designer goods, perfumes and
confectionery. Brunei International Airport
is a smoke-free airport.
Brunei International Airport is also currently
undergoing a modernisation programme to
upgrade its facilities and allow for a smoother
journey for passengers along with expansion
for traffic growth. Airport renovations are
expected to be completed by November 2014.
STAYING FIT
At Royal Brunei Airlines, your health, safety and comfort is of prime importance to us. For your
general well-being onboard our flights, we would recommend the basic inflight exercises.
Ankle circles
While seated, raise one foot
and draw a circle with your
toes. Rotate clockwise for 15
seconds and repeat the same
counterclockwise. Repeat
with the other foot. You can
do one foot at a time or both
simultaneously.
Knee lifts
Lift and hug your knee
to your chest as close
as you can. Hold for
15 seconds. Alternate
knee. Repeat 10-15
times for each knee.
Shoulder roll
Relax shoulders then
hunch them forward.
Rotate gently 10-15 times.
Neck roll
With shoulders relaxed,
drop ear to shoulder and
gently roll neck forward
and back, holding each
position about five
seconds. Repeat five times.
Upper back flex
Stretch hands forward,
then pull back slowly as
far as possible. Repeat
10-15 times.
Trunk flex
With both feet on the
floor and stomach held in,
slowly bend forward and
walk your hands down the
front of your legs toward
your ankles. Hold stretch
for 15 seconds and slowly
sit back up.
TRAVELLER’S GUIDE Brunei Visitor Information
Visas* Austrian, German, Malaysian,
Singaporean, British nationals with the
right of abode in the United Kingdom, The
Netherlands and New Zealand nationals
are exempted from the requirement to
obtain a visa for visits not exceeding
30 days. American passport holders
can enter Brunei Darussalam for three
months without visas. For nationals
of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France,
Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg,
Republic of Maldives, Norway, Oman, The
Philippines, South Korea, Spain, Sweden,
Switzerland, Thailand and The Principality
of Liechtenstein — visas are waived for 14day visits. Nationals of Australia are issued
visas on arrival at the Brunei International
Airport for visits not exceeding 30 days.
All other visitors entering Brunei
Darussalam must have visas obtainable
from any Brunei Darussalam diplomatic
mission abroad. These visas are normally
issued for a two-week stay but can be
renewed in Brunei. Visitors must hold
onward tickets and sufficient funds to
support themselves while in the country.
N.B. For more details, please contact your
nearest Brunei Embassy or diplomatic
representative.
Currency Bearer Negotiation
Instrument Declaration Passengers
entering or leaving Brunei who carry
physical currency or bearer negotiable
instruments valued at BND15,000 or more
are required to complete a declaration
form and submit it to a customs officer
(if arriving in Brunei) or an immigration
officer (if departing Brunei).
Duty-free Allowance* The import of
the following products is subject to
restrictions imposed by Brunei’s Customs
and Excise Department.
Cigarettes: Passengers will be charged duty
on cigarettes of $0.25 tax per stick, equal
to $5 per pack of 20 sticks of cigarette,
and $50 for one carton of 10 packs.
Other tobacco products - Import duty on
other tobacco products has increased
significantly. Passengers will be charged
duty for the import of tobacco products.
Alcohol: Non-Muslim passengers may
bring in two bottles of liquor plus 12 cans
of beer for personal consumption only;
and a reasonable quantity of perfumes.
Transportation The airport is about 11km
from the capital. Taxis, car rentals and
buses are available.
Currency The Brunei dollar is on a
par with the Singapore dollar, which is
also accepted in Brunei. Banks, hotels
and many department stores will cash
traveller’s cheques.
Language Malay is the official language
but English is widely used. Other languages
include Chinese and its dialect variants and
other indigenous dialects. Although the
official religion is Islam, other faiths including
Christianity and Buddhism are practised.
Clothing Light clothing is advisable as
the climate is generally warm and humid.
Women are requested to dress modestly
in keeping with local customs.
* The visa and duty-free allowances are provided as a guideline and may change without notice.
Health Doctors provide private medical
services for a nominal charge. There are a
number of state health clinics and hospitals.
Credit Cards Hotels, department stores and
other major establishments generally accept
all internationally known credit cards.
Tipping Optional. Some hotels add a 10
per cent service charge to their room rates.
Telephones Overseas calls can be made
from hotel rooms through the operator,
or via international direct dialling (IDD).
There are also coin and phonecard
operated public telephones.
Utilities Power supply is 220 - 240v,
50 cycles. The PAL and NTSC systems
are used by local television. Tap water
is generally safe to drink although some
take the precaution of boiling it.
Media Radio Television Brunei has nightly
news bulletins and a range of popular
entertainment in both English and Malay.
Cable network and Malaysian television
programmes can also be received. There
are three local daily newspapers namely:
Borneo Bulletin (English), The Brunei
Times (English) and Media Permata
(Malay). Other regional and international
publications are also available at newstands.
Food For the adventurous, the food
stalls offer Malay favourites, such as
satay (barbecued meat on a skewer)
and local dishes prepared with curry or
coconut milk. Chinese, European and
Indian cuisines are also available. All F&B
businesses, including hotel restaurants,
close for Friday prayer 12pm to 2pm.
For hotel guests, room service dining
operates as usual.
Hotels Accommodation in the capital
ranges from international standard to
middle range hotels. Service apartments
are also available at reasonable rates.
Shopping Department stores and shops
offer goods ranging from cosmetics and
stereos to local handicrafts such as the
keris (an ornamental dagger), miniature
brass cannons, and kain tenunan, a cloth
woven with gold or silver threads.
Festivals and Celebrations National Day,
23 February, Hari Raya, the end of the
Muslim fasting month, and His Majesty
The Sultan’s birthday, 15 July. Other public
holidays include Chinese Lunar New Year
and Christmas.
Customs and Courtesy
• In mosques, visitors should remove their
shoes and should not pass in front of
people at prayer. A woman should ensure
that her head, knees and arms are covered
before entering mosques. Robes are
provided at the entrance to the mosque.
• A Bruneian shakes hands lightly and
brings his hands to his chest. Members
of the opposite sex do not shake hands.
• It is impolite to point with the index
finger (use the right thumb instead) or
to beckon someone with fingers and
palm facing upwards. Instead the whole
hand should be waved with palm facing
downwards. The right fist should never
be smacked into the left palm.
• Gifts, particularly food, are passed with
the right hand.
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
75
WELCOME ONBOARD
ROUTE MAP & DESTINATIONS
London
Jeddah
Dubai
Shanghai
Hong Kong
Bangkok
Ho Chi Minh City
Manila
Kota Kinabalu
Kuala Lumpur
Bandar Seri Begawan
Singapore
Jakarta
Surabaya
Bali
CODESHARE AIRLINES
Melbourne
76
MUHIBAH
AUSTRALIA
MELBOURNE (MEL)
TULLAMARINE
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City 22 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Bus AUD16 • Taxi AUD85
Airport Tax AUD38
Currency Australian Dollar (AUD)
Language English
GMT +10
RB OFFICE
Level 10, 45 William Street
Melbourne, VIC 3000
T: (61) 3 8651 1000
T: Toll Free Aust wide
1300 721271
E: [email protected]
MCH AVIATION HOLDING
AUSTRALIA PTY LTD
Suite 6, 7-9 Mallet Road,
Tullamarine Vic 3043
T: (61) 3 8318 5100 / 5109
M: (61) 4 3046 3324
BRUNEI
DARUSSALAM
BANDAR SERI
BEGAWAN (BWN)
BRUNEI INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
Airport-City 8 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Bus BND1 • Taxi BND25
Airport Tax BND12, BKI: BND5
Currency Brunei Dollar (BND)
Language Malay, Mandarin,
Hokkien, English
GMT +8
RB OFFICE
RBA Plaza, Jalan Sultan,
Bandar Seri Begawan, BS 8811
T: (673) 2 212 222 /
2 240 500
F: (673) 2 244 737
AIR LOGISTICS SDN BHD
Unit 6, Ground Floor,
Madang Complex, Berakas
BC3715, Negara Brunei
Darussalam
T: (673) 865 7913
CHINA
HONG KONG (HKG)
CHEK LAP KOK AIRPORT
Airport-City 32 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Taxi Kowloon HKD300,
Hong Kong HKD400
Airport Tax HKD120
Currency Hong Kong Dollar
(HKD)
Language Cantonese,
Mandarin, English
GMT +8
GENERAL SALES AGENT
DEKS AIR (HONG KONG) LTD
Room 1804-5, Jubilee Centre,
18 Fenwick Street, Wanchai
T: (852) 2529 3883
F: (852) 2527 7300
E: [email protected]
AIR LOGISTICS LIMITED
1205A, 12th Floor, Tower II,
Cheung Sha Wan Plaza ,
833 Cheung Sha Wan Road,
Kowloon, Hong Kong
T: (852) 2328 0278
F: (852) 2328 0221
M: (852) 9161 1747 / 9181 9146
SHANGHAI (PVG)
SURABAYA (SUB)
PUDONG INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
Airport-City 35 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to City
• Bus CNY50 • Taxi CNY160
Airport Tax CNY90
Currency Chinese Yuan (CNY)
Language Chinese
(dialects include Mandarin,
Shanghainese)
GMT +8
PASSENGER SALES AGENT
BEIJING LONGWAY
INTERNATIONAL
Room 0, 22nd Floor,
Zhiyuan Building, No.768
Xietu Road, Luwan District,
Shanghai, China
Post code: 200023
T: (86) 21 5302 7288
F: (86) 21 6304 7686
E: [email protected]
AIR LOGISTICS GROUP
Room 1631, No. 333, North
Chengdu Road, Jing’an District,
Shanghai, China 200040
T: (86) 21 2215 7645
M: (852) 9161 1747
JUANDA INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
Airport-City 17 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Taxi IDR29,500
Airport Tax IDR150,000
Currency Indonesian
Rupiah (IDR)
Language Bahasa Indonesia,
English, Madurese
GMT +7
GENERAL SALES AGENT
PT DEKS AVIATION
INTERNUSA
Wisma BII, 6th Floor #606,
Jalan Pemuda No: 60-70,
Surabaya 60271, Indonesia
T: (62) 31 535 6377
F: (62) 31 535 6166
E: [email protected]
AIR LOGISTICS GROUP
Suite 3K, 3rd Floor Wisma
Soewarna, Soewarna
Business Park, Block E,
Lot 1 & 2, Soekarno Hata
International Airport, Jakarta
19110, Indonesia
T: (62) 21 5591 2839
F: (62) 21 5591 1662
M: (62) 81 653 6501
INDONESIA
BALI (DPS)
NGURAH RAI
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City approximately
16 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Bus IDR25,000
• Taxi IDR70,000 - 90,000
Airport Tax IDR150,000
Currency Indonesian
Rupiah (IDR)
Language Bahasa
Indonesia, English
GMT +8
GENERAL SALES AGENT
PT DEKS AVIATION
INTERNUSA
Suite #3, Lobby Level, Kuta
Paradiso Hotel, Jl Kartika
Plaza, Kuta, Tuban Bali (ID)
T: (62) 361 757355
F: (62) 361 757785
E: [email protected]
AIR LOGISTICS GROUP
Wisthi Sabha Builing, 2nd FI,
Room 19, Ngurah Rai
International Airport, Tuban
80361, Bali, Indonesia
T: (62) 361 936 3345
F: (62) 361 936 0284
JAKARTA (JKT)
SOEKARNO-HATTA
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City 50 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Bus IDR7,000
• Taxi IDR150,000
Airport Tax IDR150,000
Currency Indonesian
Rupiah (IDR)
Language Bahasa
Indonesia, English
GMT +7
GENERAL SALES AGENT
PT DEKS AVIATION
INTERNUSA
Wisma Tamara, 6th Floor #668,
Jalan Jend Sudirman Kav 24,
Jakarta 1290, Indonesia
T: (62) 21 520 6338
F: (62) 21 527 9990
E: [email protected]
AIR LOGISTICS GROUP
Suite 3K, 3rd Floor, Wisma
Soewarna, Soewarna
Business Park, Block E,
Lot 1 & 2, Soekarno Hata
International Airport, Jakarta
19110, Indonesia
T: (62) 21 5591 1311
F: (62) 21 5591 1662
M: (62) 81 2165 799 22
MALAYSIA
KUALA LUMPUR
(KUL)
KUALA LUMPUR
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City 80 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Bus Luxury RM25
• Taxi Budget MYR70-80,
Limo MYR100-120
Airport Tax MYR51
Currency Malaysian Ringgit
(MYR)
Language Malay, English,
Cantonese, Tamil, Mandarin
GMT +8
RB OFFICE
Lot 25, 1st Floor, UBN Tower
(Shangri-la Shopping Arcade),
P.O. Box 99, Jln P. Ramlee,
50250 Kuala Lumpur
T: (60) 3 2070 7166 /
2070 6628
F: (60) 3 2070 6899
E: [email protected]
APPLE AVIATION SDN BHD
No 57-59 (3FL), Jalan Bukit
Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
T: (60) 3 2145 2029 /
2143 8877
F: (60) 3 2143 8876
M: (60) 12 388 5319
KOTA KINABALU (BKI)
KOTA KINABALU
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City 8.5 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Taxi MYR13.50
Airport Tax MYR26 To/
Transit via Brunei: MYR20
Currency Malaysian Ringgit
(MYR)
Language Malay, Mandarin,
English
GMT +8
RB OFFICE
Lot BG - 3B Ground Floor,
Block B, Komplex KWSP,
Jalan Karamunsing,
8000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
T: (60) 88 242 193 / 6
E: sskkoff@rba.com.bn
APPLE AVIATION SDN BHD
No 57-59 (3FL), Jalan Bukit
Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur,
Malaysia
T: (60) 3 2145 2029 /
2143 8877
F: (60) 3 2143 8876
M: (60) 12 388 5319
PHILIPPINES
THAILAND
MANILA (MNL)
BANGKOK (BKK)
NINOY AQUINO
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City 9 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Bus PhP13 • Taxi PhP120
Airport Tax PhP750
Currency Philippine Peso (PhP)
Language Tagalog, English
GMT +8
GENERAL SALES AGENT
AVIA-RH INC
4/F Le Rose Building,
832 A. Arnaiz Avenue,
San Lorenzo Village,
Makati City, Philippines.
T: (63) 632 886 7513
F: (63) 632 886 7494
E: [email protected]
AIR CARGO PARTNERS
CORPORATION
True North GSA Inc., Unit 26
Cargo Village Complex, Ninoy
Aquino Avenue, Paranaque City
Metro Manila, Philippines 1700
T: (63) 2 500 9114
F: (63) 2 854 0244
SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT
Airport-City 25 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Bus BHT150
• Taxi BHT200-250
Airport Tax BHT700
Currency Baht (BHT)
Language Thai, English
GMT +7
GENERAL SALES AGENT
DEKS AIR THAILAND
4th Floor, C.P. Tower,
313 Silom Road,
Bangrak 10500, Thailand
T: (66) 02 638 3050
F: (66) 02 638 2969
ABDA CARGO INTERNATIONAL
999 Moo 7, B-FZ Cargo
Terminal, Room 302, 3rd
Fl, Suvarnabhumi Airport,
Bangphli. Samutprakarn
10540 Bangkok, Thailand
T: (66) 2134 2305 / 6
F: (66) 2134 2307
M: (66) 86 392 1132
SAUDI ARABIA
JEDDAH (JED)
KING ABDUL AZIZ
INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT
Airport-City 25 kms (from
North Terminal); 15 kms
(from South Terminal)
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Taxi SAR50
Airport Tax SAR50 except Haj
& Umrah pax, diplomats and
escorts for human remains
Currency Saudi Arabian
Riyal (SAR)
Language Arabic, English,
French
GMT +3
GENERAL SALES AGENT
ELAF AVIATION
Al Nakheel Centre, Madina
Road Jeddah 21414,
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
T: (9662) 665 7143 /
661 2679 / 665 7908
E: [email protected]
LEISURE CARGO FZCO
Saudi Airline Cargo Terminal
Building, Jeddah, K.S.A
(SITA DXBFBAB)
T: (966) 56 512 5101
M: (966) 56 512 5101
SINGAPORE
SINGAPORE (SIN)
CHANGI INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
Airport-City 20 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Bus SGD1.40 • Taxi SGD18
Airport Tax SGD21
Currency Singapore Dollar
(SGD)
Language Malay, English,
Mandarin, Tamil
GMT +8
RB OFFICE
81 Clemenceau Avenue,
#03-13, UE Square Shopping
Mall, Singapore 239917
T: (65) 6235 4672
E: [email protected]
AIR-ABDA (S) PTE LTD
Room 234-236,
SATS Airfreight Terminal 3,
105 Airport Cargo Road,
Singapore 819462
Airmail Transit Centre, P.O.Box
0846, Singapore 918154
T: (65) 6543 2290 / 2260
F: (65) 6543 2296
M: (65) 9679 2259 / 9641
0393 / 9651 3944
UNITED
ARAB EMIRATES
DUBAI (DXB)
DUBAI INTERNATIONAL
AIRPORT
Airport-City 4 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport
to City • Taxi AED20 + 50
fils for every 500m
Airport Tax AED30
Currency Dirham (AED)
Language Arabic, English
GMT +4
RB OFFICE
Centurian Star, Shop
Number 3, (new RB office),
Opp. Deira City Centre,
Deira, Dubai, UAE
T: (971) 4334 4884
(Reservation) / 4686 (Sales)
F: (971) 4334 4585
E: [email protected],
[email protected]
Tower 400 (UNB Building),
Shop 7-10, Al Soor Area,
Sharjah, UAE (SHJBI0301)
T: (971) 6005 24444 /
6575 8575
Oman Road, Nakheel, Shaikh
Saqr Bin Mohammad Al
Qasmi Street, Ras Al Khaimah,
UAE (RAKBI0301)
T: (971) 7227 2847 / 7228 9987
Al-Ain Tower, East 4th Road,
Almouror, Electra Street, Al
Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, UAE
(AUHBI0301)
T: (971) 2815 3444 / 2815 3450
M-201, Paris Gift Palace
Building, Zayed Bin
Sulthan Street, Al-Ain, UAE
(AUHBI0301)
T: (971) 3764 1410 / 1990
LEISURE CARGO
Office No 3069, Air Cargo
Terminal Building, Dubai
Cargo Village, P.O. Box
293051 Dubai, United Arab
Emirates (SITA DXBFBLT)
T: (971) 4 286 9666
F: (971) 4 286 9995
M: (971) 55 954 6066
Office No. M25 Freight
Gate-4, Dubai Airport Free
Zone, P.O. Box 54385, Dubai,
United Arab Emirates
(SITA DXBFBLT)
T: (971) 4 299 7924
F: (971) 4 299 7989
M: (971) 55 221 6289
UNITED
KINGDOM
LONDON (LHR)
HEATHROW AIRPORT
Airport-City 35 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Bus GBP7 • Taxi GBP40
Airport Tax F & J Class Pax:
GBP80; Y Class Pax: GBP40;
PSC: GBP9
Currency Pound Sterling (GBP)
Language English
GMT +0
RB OFFICE
49 Cromwell Road, London SW7
2ED, England, United Kingdom
T: (44) 207 584 6660
E: [email protected]
AIR LOGISTICS LIMITED
Cargo Terminal 4, East
Midlands Airport, Castle
Donington, Derby, DE74 2SA
(SITA LONALXH)
T: (44) 0 1332 850021 /
7885 875184
F: (44) 0 1332 811961
E: airlogistics@airlogistics.
co.uk / operations@
airlogistics.co.uk /
[email protected]
2nd Floor, Building 558,
Shoreham Road West,
Heathrow Airport Hounslow,
Middlesex TW6 3RN
T: (44) 0 208 759 8686
F: (44) 0 208 990 9005
M: (44) 7713 506614
E: [email protected]
VIETNAM
HO CHI MINH CITY
(SGN)
TAN SON NHAT AIRPORT
Airport-City 7 kms
Approx. Fare from Airport to
City • Bus VND8,000
• Taxi VND160,000
Airport Tax USD20
Currency Vietnam Dong (VND)
Language Vietnamese,
Mandarin, English, French
GMT +7
GENERAL SALES AGENT
DEKS AIR VIETNAM SERVICE
Ground Floor, Citilight Tower,
45 Vo Thi Sau St., Dakao Ward,
District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
T: (84) 8 3820 7327
F: (84) 8 3820 7329
E: [email protected]
7th Floor, 163 Ba Trieu St.
Ba Trieu St., Le Dai Hanh Ward,
Hai Ba Trung Dist, Hanoi, Vietnam
T: (84) 4 3820 2828
F: (84) 4 3974 3595
AIR CARGO LOGISTICS
VIETNAM CO. LTD
Air Logistics Limited, Room 06,
2nd Floor, New TCS Building,
46-48 Hau Giang Str., Ward 4,
Ho Chi Minh City
T: (84) 8 3848 8567
M: (84) 9 0380 7939
Air Cargo Logistics Vietnam - HCM
City, Unit 206 - New TCS Building,
46 Hau Giang Street, Tan Binh
District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam
T: (84) 8 7305 0988 Ext 8400
F: (84) 8 3547 0004
Room 1308A, 13rd Floor, Dao Duy
Anh Tower, No. 9 Dao Duy Anh
Street, Phuong Mai Ward Dong
Da District, Hanoi City
T: (84) 4 3577 2454 / 3577 0942
F: (84) 4 3577 2146
M: (852) 6892 4588 /
(84) 9 0380 7939
E: [email protected]
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
77
WELCOME ONBOARD
CAPITAL ATTRACTIONS
ABODE OF PEACE
Small in size but big in attractions,
Brunei’s capital has lots to offer.
Brunei Darussalam is a country rich in culture and heritage.
It is a small, peaceful, prosperous kingdom on the northern
shore of the ecologically-rich island of Borneo. Come and
discover Brunei, a Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures.
Brunei is arguably best known today as an oil
producing country. The nation became independent
in 1984 and, thanks to its large reserves of oil and gas,
now has one of the highest standards of living in the
world. Its population of just over 408,000 is made
up of two-thirds ethnic Malay, with the remainder
being Chinese, Indian and other indigenous groups.
The Sultanate has four districts: Brunei-Muara
(which includes the capital Bandar Seri Begawan),
Temburong, Tutong and Belait. ‘Darussalam’, the
Arabic word for ‘Abode of Peace’ describes Brunei’s
Islamic history that dates back some 1,500 years.
Today, Brunei remains the world’s only Malay Islamic
Monarchy with an unbroken royal lineage that has
ruled the nation for the past 600 years.
www.bruneitourism.travel
For more information
on Brunei, email:
[email protected]
Images DAVID KIRKLAND/
BRUNEI TOURISM
Brunei-Muara
1
2
3
THE OMAR ‘ALI SAIFUDDIEN
MOSQUE
Brunei Darussalam’s iconic landmark, the
mosque was completed in 1958 and is
named after the 28th Sultan, the late Sultan
Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, who is referred to as
the Architect of Modern Brunei.
ISTANA NURUL IMAN
The official residence of His Majesty
Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin
Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of
Brunei Darussalam. Although not open to
public, except during Hari Raya Aidil Fitri,
its golden domes and vaulted roof can be
viewed from Kampong Ayer.
LAPAU AND DEWAN MAJLIS
The Royal Ceremonial Hall features an
exquisite golden dome and hosts all of the
Sultanate’s traditional royal ceremonies.
MUSLIM PRAYER TIMES in Brunei Darussalam
September 2015
Zulqaedah 1436 / Zulhijjah 1436
Date
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
Day
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun Mon
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Imsak
4.47
4.47 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46
4.45
4.45
4.45
4.45
4.45
4.45 4.44 4.44 4.44 4.44 4.44
4.43
4.43
4.43
4.43
4.43 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.42
Subuh
4.57
4.57 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56
4.55
4.55
4.55
4.55
4.55
4.55 4.54 4.54 4.54 4.54 4.54
4.53
4.53
4.53
4.53
4.53
Syuruk
6.14
6.14
6.13
6.13
6.12
6.12
6.12
6.12
6.11
6.11
6.11
6.11
6.10
6.10
6.10
6.10 6.09 6.09 6.09 6.09 6.09 6.08 6.08 6.08 6.08 6.08
6.37
6.37
6.37
6.37 6.36 6.36 6.36 6.36
6.35
6.35
6.35
6.35
6.35 6.34 6.34 6.34 6.34
6.33
6.33
6.33
Hijriah
Doha
Zohor
Asar
6.13
Sun Mon
6.13
6.13
6.11
Sun Mon
4.52
6.33 6.32 6.32 6.32 6.32 6.32
Sun Mon
4.52
6.31
4.52
6.31
Tue Wed
4.52
6.31
4.52
6.31
12.22 12.22 12.21 12.21 12.21 12.20 12.20 12.20 12.19 12.19 12.19 12.18 12.18 12.18 12.17 12.17 12.17 12.16 12.16 12.16 12.15 12.15 12.14 12.14 12.14 12.13 12.13 12.13 12.12 12.12
3.26
3.25
3.24
3.23
3.22 3.20
3.19
3.19
3.21
3.21
3.21
3.21
3.22
3.22
3.22
3.22
3.22
3.23
3.23
3.23
3.23
Maghrib 6.27
6.27 6.26 6.26
6.25
6.25
6.25 6.24 6.24
6.23
6.23 6.22 6.22
6.21
6.21 6.20 6.20
6.19
6.19
6.18
6.18
6.17
6.17
6.16
6.16
6.15
6.15
6.14
6.14
6.13
Isyak
7.37
7.35
7.35
7.34
7.32
7.32
7.30
7.30
7.28
7.28
7.27
7.27
7.26
7.26
7.25
7.25
7.24
7.24
7.23
7.23
7.22
78
3.29
7.37
3.28
3.27
7.36
MUHIBAH
7.36
7.34
7.33
3.19
7.31
3.19 3.20 3.20 3.20 3.20
7.31
7.29
7.29
4
THE ROYAL REGALIA
BUILDING
7
8
9
10
BRUNEI MUSEUM
The museum is home to a
collection of royal regalia, including
the royal chariot, gold and silver
ceremonial armoury, the jewel
encrusted crowns used during the
coronation and a replica of the
throne, which is used by the Sultan
on state occasions.
5
6
ISTANA DARUSSALAM
Located on Jalan Sumbiling,
this wooden palace captures the
architectural heritage of old
Malay palaces. Visitors may
view only from outside.
THE SULTAN HAJI
HASSANAL BOLKIAH
FOUNDATION COMPLEX
The capital’s most popular
shopping venues, it combines
both traditional Malay and
modern architecture.
OFF THE BEATEN TRACK
Brunei’s national museum spotlights
Brunei’s role in Southeast Asia’s
history. The Islamic Art Gallery has
historical pieces of Islamic art and a
commendable Quran collection.
Temburong
11
12
13
ULU TEMBURONG
NATIONAL PARK
Explore Brunei’s lush virgin forest
through lofty canopy walkways, scenic
hiking trails and a thrilling river ride to
the park on the Temburong River.
BRUNEI ARTS AND
HANDICRAFTS CENTRE
Brunei’s ancient and traditional arts
and crafts – kain tenunan, silver &
brass ware, wood carving and basketry
– are showcased in this centre, aimed
to preserve its rich legacy.
Tutong
TASEK MERIMBUN
Brunei’s largest lake that curves in an ‘S’
has an island in the centre accessible
via a wooden walkway and various
facilities for picnics and recreation.
TAMU KIANGGEH
The Tamu, or open air market, on
the banks of the Kianggeh River is a
popular local market for traditional
dishes, fruits, vegetables, flowers
and handicrafts.
Belait
OIL & GAS DISCOVERY CENTRE
An ‘edutainment’ facility, this interactive
science centre aims to make science
exciting and accessible to all with more
than 100 hands-on exhibits in themed
areas to explore.
KAMPONG AYER
The world’s largest water village that
is home to more than 30,000 people
living on unique wooden houses on
stilts over the Brunei River.
October 2015
Zulhijjah 1436 / Muharam 1437
Date
Hijriah
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
Tue Wed
Day
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun Mon
Imsak
4.41
4.41
4.41
4.41
Thu
Fri
Sat
Sun Mon
Tue Wed
Thu
Fri
Sat
4.41 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38
Sun Mon
Sun Mon
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.37
4.47
4.47
4.47
4.47
4.47
4.47
4.47
4.47
4.47
Subuh
4.51
4.51
4.51
4.51
4.51 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48
Syuruk
6.07
6.07
6.07
6.07
6.07 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05
Doha
6.31 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.30 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29
Zohor
12.12 12.11 12.11 12.11 12.10 12.10 12.10 12.10 12.09 12.09 12.09 12.09 12.08 12.08 12.08 12.08 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.05
Asar
3.23
3.23
3.23
3.23
3.24
3.24
3.24
3.24
3.24
3.24
3.24
3.24
3.24
Maghrib 6.13
6.13
6.12
6.12
6.11
6.11
6.10
6.10
6.10 6.09 6.09 6.08 6.08 6.08
6.07
6.07
6.07 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.03 6.03 6.03
Isyak
7.22
7.21
7.21
7.20
7.20
7.20
7.19
7.19
7.17
7.16
7.16
7.22
3.24
7.18
3.24
7.18
3.24
7.18
3.24
7.17
7.17
3.24
7.16
3.25
7.16
3.25
7.15
3.25
7.15
3.25
7.15
3.25
7.15
3.25
7.15
3.25
7.15
3.25
7.14
3.25
7.14
3.25
7.14
3.25
7.14
SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2015
3.25
7.14
3.25
7.14
79
MIND TEASERS
Crossword Puzzle
1
2
3
4
5
12
13
15
16
26
20
18
21
6
“Tear down this wall!”
7
8
9
10
11
14
This year marks the 25th Anniversary of German Reunification,
October 3, 1990. Let’s revisit that fateful day and test your
knowledge on one of the most significant world events.
1. On what date did the Berlin wall fall.
17
2. West and East Germany were reunited once before October
1990. When was it?
19
22
23
24
25
3. Who was the British Prime Minister that bitterly opposed German
reunification?
4. Who was the French President that opposed it, too?
26
27
31
32
34
35
28
29
30
5. Who was the U.S. President who helped champion negotiations
among East and West Germany, Britain, France, the Soviet Union,
and the United States?
33
6. What was the result of that negotiation which was signed on
September 12, 1990?
36
7. When were the first elections held upon reunification?
44
Sudoku
1 3 5 8
6
6
8
8
4
© Boatload Puzzles, LLC
3
© Copyright 2008 Sudogo.com
7
4
1
3 5
4 6 1
6
7 8 3
7
6
4 8 9
1
Answers
1. November 9, 1989 2. 1945 3. Margaret Thatcher
4. Francois Mitterrand 5. George H.W. Bush 6. The “Two-Plus-Four Treaty”
7. 2 December, 1990 8. Adolf Hitler 9. The Day of German Unity
10. Ronald Reagan; leader of the Soviet Union, Mikhail Gorbachev
41
37
38
34
31
26
20
21
22
18
15
12
1
2
3
4
42
43
39
35
32
27
28
19
16
13
5
6
44
40
36
33
29
23
17
7
T
E
N
D
E
R
E
S
T
30
A
G
R
E
E
14
8
9
T
O
R
T
E
24
S
T
E
E
R
25
O M
N E
A L
10
11
6 4 2 9 7 1 3 5 8
9 5 7 8 3 6 1 4 2
1 3 8 2 5 4 6 7 9
5 9 1 3 4 8 2 6 7
2 6 3 5 9 7 8 1 4
7 8 4 6 1 2 9 3 5
4 2 9 1 6 5 7 8 3
7 2 3 4 9 6
4 8 9 5 2 1
1
6
5
22 Enlarged
24 Rich cake
25 Guide
27 Head movement
28 Go downhill
29 Hazardous curve
33 Actress ___
Stapleton
36 Foot part
38 Restless
39 Depot (abbr.)
42 Reverberate
43 A Baldwin
brother
44 Camp shelter
45 Hooting bird
46 Python’s skin
48 Slugger’s stat
49 CBS rival
50 Compass
direction (abbr.)
7
Plus
Stag’s mate
River barrier
Knight
protectors
5 ___ Valley
(vineyard site)
6 Eve’s partner
7 Tennis’s ___
Sampras
8 Concur
9 Most sore
10 “___ Clear
Day...” (2 wds.)
11 ___ Gibson of
“Braveheart”
17 Graceful tree
19 Born
20 Rascal
21 Fable’s lesson
8
1
2
3
4
3
Down
33 Nothing
more than
34 Disfigure
35 Dislike
37 Earnest
requests
40 External
41 Aardvark
45 Hindrance
47 Important times
51 Troubles
52 Egg source
53 Recedes
54 Godiva’s title
55 Fall mo.
56 Kind
50
Appends
Short sleep
Minute particle
Ark skipper
Fruit punch
Heredity carrier
___ Moore of “A
Few Good Men”
16 Fatherly
18 Painted
20 Look happy
23 Convenes
26 Compact
30 Spoil
31 Circle parts
32 Approvals
49
1
5
8
12
13
14
15
R A S
B B S
I C E
Across
9 5
3
48
56
M
A
U
R
E
E
N
55
47
54
10. Who was the U.S. President that declared “Tear down this wall!”
in this title and to whom was it directed?
53
53
50
56
52
49
P
E
T E
E L
M
E
S
S T
O
T E
E
N
T
51
48
52
47
55
46
9. What do Germans now call October 3?
N A
A D
P A
N A M
E
E N S
O K
D I
S
T E A
A C L
H E
O C
43
46
42
8. The last free and universal election in Germany was in 1933.
Who was elected leader that election?
A D D S
N O A H
D E M I
E
S M I L
C O N D
A R C S
M A R
P L E A
A N
O B S T
W O E S
L A D Y
45
40
45
41
39
51
38
54
37
Solutions
80
MUHIBAH
roya l b ru n e i a ir l in e s | S ep tember - October 20 15
BY ROYA L B R U N E I A I R L I N E S | S ep t e mb er - O ctob e r 2 01 5
Ex
xcel
c e l l een
nt Ab
bo
od
des
es
Sout
So
South
uth
ut
h Ea
East
a st
s A
Asia
s a
si