Brunei`s Royal Wedding Album
Transcription
Brunei`s Royal Wedding Album
roya l b ru n e i a ir l in e s | July - August 2015 BY ROYA L B R U N E I A I R L I N E S | July - August 2015 Muhibah_175x230mm_JulAug2015_Cover.indd 1 B runei’s Roya l Wedding Al bum 6/29/15 10:58 AM IN THIS ISSUE 44 38 32 72 76 COVER Brunei’s Royal Wedding Album. 28 Best of Brunei Happy Wedding Anniversary, Your Majesties! Image: The Brunei Times 28 Keistimewaan Brunei Allah Peliharakan KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam & KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri. SPECIAL FEATURE FEATURES 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] 08 Best of Brunei Brunei’s Royal Wedding Album. 08 Keistimewaan Brunei Album Istiadat Perkahwinan DiRaja Brunei. 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 54 64 David Kirkland/Brunei Tourism 86 78 32 38 Collective Repertoire The Majestic Kuala Lumpur. Sensory Branding Melbourne’s Queen Victoria Market. 44 Bargain Britain Best British experiences for a song. 54 Literary Haven Bookstores we love. 64 Muslim-Friendly Taipei Holiday with a purpose. LIFESTYLE 72 74 76 78 Motoring Bentley’s EXP 10 Speed 6 The Buzz What’s New Take 5 Athens Travel Diary 80 82 83 84 86 Selamat Datang Brunei International Airport Traveller’s Guide Route Map & Destinations Abode of Peace WELCOME ABOARD 05 06 Deputy Chairman’s Message Inside RB 74 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] JULY | AUGUST 2015 3 WELCOME ONBOARD DEPUTY CHAIRMAN’S MESSAGE RB’s rebranded Customer Service Centre and Royal Skies Elite Lounge and new heritage inspired uniforms for Customer Service Centre, Royal Skies and Airport Ground Service staff. Dear Guests, Welcome aboard your flight today with Royal Brunei Airlines (RB). Our team is working very hard to constantly improve and innovate our customer service and we invite you to sit back, relax and enjoy the experience. In this issue of our lively and ever popular inflight magazine Muhibah, it is our privilege to honour the 69th birthday of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. This year, RB is itself proud to celebrate the 40th anniversary of our first flight. On behalf of all RB staff past and present, we would like to express our sincere gratitude to His Majesty for his active support and encouragement for RB from the very beginning. As many of our frequent passengers are aware, RB commenced our rebranding journey with the new livery for our Dreamliner fleet in October 2013. Since then the new heritage-inspired uniforms we introduced for our cabin crew, customer service centre personnel and airport staff in Brunei and around the world have been very well received. Most recently, we launched our newly rebranded, state-of-the-art Customer Service Centre at RB Plaza in Bandar Seri Begawan, and introduced a new Premier Check-In Lounge at Brunei International Airport. Our website www.flyroyalbrunei.com also underwent a major facelift with the addition of a richer content Check out eMuhibah at www.flyroyalbrunei.com Be a fan on on all our destinations and a new user-friendly infrastructure. The website also features better data on comparison of fares, clearer flight information and a layout that is easier to navigate. New ancillary services are also featured, enabling passengers to book preferred seats and purchase extra baggage at attractive online rates. Finally, a new Manage My Booking feature is now available, allowing passengers to view and update their booking details at any time from the comfort of their home. We have also launched a new mobile website; enabling passengers to make flight bookings on their smart phones. These new initiatives will greatly enhance our ability to meet the expectations of our ever-growing internet-savvy customers. 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 JULY | AUGUST 2015 5 WELCOME ONBOARD INSIGHTS INSIDE RB Roundup of Royal Brunei Airlines happenings. REBRANDED CUSTOMER SERVICE CENTRE AND ROYAL SKIES ELITE LOUNGE CELEBRATING 40 YEARS OF FLIGHT RB marked its 40 years of flight on 14 May, 2015 with a breakfast get together attended by the original 1975 cabin crew of the first Singapore flight. Then, on 26 May, 2015 a thanksgiving event was held, graced by Guest of Honour and RB chairman, Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Awang Hj Bahrin. Also present were RB’s board of directors, management, members of staff and RB’s former cabin crew who were enrolled in 1975. RB also celebrated 40 years of flight to Hong Kong at Royal Plaza hotel in Hong Kong on 22 May, 2015. Present was RB’s International Brand Ambassador, Wu Chun. RB has launched its newly refurbished and rebranded Customer Service Centre and Royal Skies Elite Lounge at RB Plaza in Bandar Seri Begawan. Present as Guest of Honour was Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Awang Hj Bahrin Abdullah, Deputy Minister of Finance and Chairman of the Board of Directors of RB. All visitors to the Centre will benefit from shorter processing times and there is even a new self-service area with free computers and WiFi access where passengers can complete their own transactions. Opening hours for all customers (including Royal Skies Gold and Silver members) at the new Plaza Centre will be 8am to 4pm (Monday – Saturday)*. The RB Plaza event also marked the launch of a new state-of-the-art RB Call Centre located on the first floor. Extended calling hours will now be available to customers at 221-2222 from 7am to 10pm (Monday to Saturday)* and from 7am to 5pm on Sundays. * Except for Friday midday prayer break from 12noon to 2pm. 6 MUHIBAH REBRANDING JOURNEY AND 27TH ANNIVERSARY OF FLIGHT TO DUBAI RB GAMES The RB Games, an internal sports day for staff, was held at the Royal Brunei Recreation Centre (RBRC) on 24 May, 2015. Staff were divided into 4 teams: Wira, Aman, Ria and Megah. Team Megah came out as champion for RB Games 2015. RBRC also launched its new logo at the event. RB ROADSHOW IN SHENZHEN RB held a two-day roadshow at Holiday Plaza in Shenzhen, China from 13-14 June, 2015 to promote holiday packages in Brunei and beyond. RB International Brand Ambassador, Wu Chun, also made an appearance on the second day of the roadshow to interact with fans. RB has launched its newly refurbished and rebranded office in Dubai at Centurian Star. Present to launch the office as Guest of Honour was His Excellency Mohd Yusra Hj Mohd Salleh, Brunei’s Ambassador to the United Arab Emirates. Also present were travel agents, RB business partners and media. At the same event, RB also formally introduced Cozmo Travel as the new GSA for United Arab Emirates. The new GSA agreement was signed by Mr. Jamal Abdulnazar, representing Cozmo Travel and Mr. Karam Chand, Chief Commercial and Planning Officer of RB. Under the new agreement, Cozmo will operate an exclusive RB retail outlet in Dubai, together with shared outlets across each of the other Emirates. BALI ON BOARD RB collaborated with MagicMedia and a few Bruneian surfers to bring Bali On Board; a four episode travel web-series that centres on a group of Bruneian surfers from all walks of life exploring the wonders of Bali. JULY | AUGUST 2015 7 FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI In one poignant image, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, is seen caressing his son, HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik’s hand, while the blessing of the bride took place. These, among the many moments photographed at HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik’s recent Royal Wedding, showed a rare glimpse to the side of His Majesty – a loving father who is close to his son than many realise. When Brunei announced in January 2015 of the Royal Marriage between HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik and (then) Dayangku Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pengiran Haji Bolkiah, the entire nation rejoiced. The Royal Wedding took place over a period of 11 days from 5 to 15 April, 2015. A high level Royal Wedding Committee was set up to oversee the upcoming nuptials, advised by none other – His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. His Majesty opened wide the doors of Istana Nurul Iman to welcome royals, nobilities, foreign dignitaries and envoys to share in celebrating his beloved son’s joyous union in pomp and ceremony, unique to a traditional Bruneian Royal Wedding. In the days that were to follow, the nation – and the world – would witness one of the most dazzling ceremonies and splendours to date, but more importantly, the legacy of father and son that goes beyond a royal title. 10 MUHIBAH Di salah satu imej yang telah diabadikan, Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah kelihatan membelai tangan paduka anakanda, YTM Paduka Seri Duli Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik, dengan penuh kasih sayang ketika pengantin perempuan berkenan diculiki bedak DiRaja. Imej ini, di antara kenangan yang dirakamkan ketika Majlis Istiadat Perkahwinan DiRaja YTM Paduka Seri Duli Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik baru ini, telah memberi gambaran Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan – seorang ayah penyayang yang rapat dengan paduka anakanda Baginda daripada yang disedari oleh orang ramai. Apabila pengumuman majlis perkahwinan DiRaja di antara YTM Paduka Seri Duli Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik dan Dayangku Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah Pengiran Haji Bolkiah disiarkan pada Januari 2015, suasana serta perasaan kemeriahan orang ramai dapat terasa. Jawatankuasa Tertinggi telah ditubuhkan untuk menyelia upacara-upacara majlis istiadat perkahwinan DiRaja yang berlangsung pada 5 hingga 15 April, 2015, dan dinasihati oleh Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam. Pintu Istana Nurul Iman terbuka luas untuk menyambut hadirin kerabat DiRaja, bangsawan serta orang kenamaan asing bersama meraikan perkahwinan DiRaja dengan penuh kegemilangan tradisi dan keunikan adat Istiadat Perkahwinan DiRaja Brunei. Dalam hari yang berikut, seluruh negara – dan dunia – telah menyaksikan suatu upacara majlis yang penuh keagungan dan beristiadat DiRaja. Tetapi jauh lebih penting ialah warisan di antara seorang ayah and anak yang menjangkaui gelaran DiRaja. JULY | AUGUST 2015 11 Dirgahayu It is with utmost gratitude and sincere appreciation on this most auspicious occasion, Lufthansa Technik and the Lufthansa Aviation Group send their most heartfelt birthday wishes to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. We are indeed proud, privileged and most honoured to have been selected to serve His Majesty The Sultan’s Flight for decades. Lufthansa assures its continuous commitment and dedication in supporting HMSF’s flight operation and aircraft maintenance. Happy birthday and Happy landings. THE ROYAL MARRIAGE PROPOSAL CEREMONY His Majesty, on behalf of HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik, dispatched a royal entourage to the residence of the bride-to be to seek her hand in marriage on 5 April. MAJLIS ISTIADAT BERSURUH DIRAJA Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, sebagai wakil YTM Paduka Seri Duli Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik, telah menghantar sebuah rombongan DiRaja ke kediaman bakal pengantin perempuan untuk meminang pada 5 April. JULY | AUGUST 2015 13 FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI 14 MUHIBAH THE COMMENCEMENT OF ROYAL VIGIL NIGHT CEREMONY From 6 April onwards, royalties, aristocrats and distinguished guests observed the royal ceremonial custom with the recital of verses from the Holy Qur’an and traditional activities until 15 April. MAJLIS ISTIADAT MEMBUKA GENDANG JAGA-JAGA DIRAJA Bermula dari 6 April, ahli-ahli Kerabat DiRaja, Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran-Pengiran Cheteria, MenteriMenteri Kabinet, Pengiran-Pengiran Peranakan, Pehin-Pehin Manteri serta tetamu kenamaan menghadiri majlis yang lazimnya berlangsung setiap malam mengikut peraturan istiadat dan tertib majlis istiadat DiRaja. Ketika Istiadat Berjaga-jaga, majlis diserikan dengan bacaan ayat-ayat suci Al-Qur’an dan aktiviti permainan tradisi sehingga 15 April. JULY | AUGUST 2015 15 FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI 16 MUHIBAH THE ROYAL DOWRY AND ENGAGEMENT CEREMONY HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik is officially engaged to YAM Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah on the acceptance of the royal engagement gifts. MAJLIS ISTIADAT MENGHANTAR TANDA DIRAJA DAN PERTUNANAGAN DIRAJA Pertunangan YTM Paduka Seri Duli Pengiran Muda ‘Abdul Malik dengan YAM Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah telah dirasmikan setelah penerimaan tanda pertunangan DiRaja disempurnakan. JULY | AUGUST 2015 17 FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI THE ROYAL POWDERING CEREMONY Amid royal gun salute, members of the Royal Family, led by His Majesty and Her Majesty, took turns to grace the royal couple with coloured powder paste and scented oil applied upon on open palms. MAJLIS ISTIADAT BERBEDAK PENGANTIN DIRAJA Diiringi tembakan meriam di perkarangan istana, ahli-ahli Kerabat DiRaja, didahului keberangkatan Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri, berkenan menculiki bedak berwarna dan minyak wangi DiRaja pada tapak tangan pengantin DiRaja. 18 MUHIBAH JULY | AUGUST 2015 19 and Warmest Wishes to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam bt.com.bn THE ROYAL MARRIAGE SOLEMNISATION CEREMONY On 9 April, His Majesty and the male members of the Royal Family bore witness to the solemnisation ceremony between HRH Prince ‘Abdul Malik and YAM Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Raabi’atul ‘Adawiyyah held at the Sultan Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Mosque. MAJLIS ISTIADAT AKAD NIKAH DIRAJA Pada 9 April, Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dengan diiringi ahli-ahli Kerabat DiRaja berangkat sama ke Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah DiRaja yang berlangsung di Masjid Sultan Omar ’Ali Saifuddien. JULY | AUGUST 2015 21 FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI THE ROYAL SITTING-INSTATE CEREMONY On 12 April, the royal groom and bride, resplendent in gold brocade attire, were ‘King and Queen’ for the day with royalties from Malaysia, Heads of State and diplomatic envoys attending the joyous event. Pada 12 April, pengantin DiRaja kelihatan berseri-seri dalam pakaian broked emas, merupakan ‘Raja dan Permaisuri’ sehari dengan ahli-ahli kerabat DiRaja dari Malaysia, ketua-ketua negara serta para utusan diplomatik yang telah hadir beramai untuk meraikan bersama hari yang penuh kegembiraan ini. 22 MUHIBAH Information Department Brunei MAJLIS ISTIADAT BERSANDING PENGANTIN DIRAJA JULY | AUGUST 2015 23 FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI 24 MUHIBAH THE ROYAL WEDDING BANQUET CEREMONY His Majesty and Her Majesty hosted a banquet reception at Istana Nurul Iman’s Banquet Hall in honour of the royal couple. MAJLIS ISTIADAT PERSANTAPAN PENGANTIN DIRAJA Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri berkenan berangkat ke Majlis Istiadat Persantapan DiRaja yang telah berlangsung di Dewan Santap Istana Nurul Iman sempena meraikan pasangan Pengantin DiRaja. JULY | AUGUST 2015 25 THE ROYAL THANKSGIVING AND CLOSING OF VIGIL CEREMONY HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah consented to led the conclusion of the 11-day royal wedding festivities on 15 April with a du’a recital and a 21-gun salute. MAJLIS ISTIADAT MEMBACA DOA SELAMAT AND MENUTUP GENDANG JAGA-JAGA DYTM Paduka Seri Pengiran Bendahara Seri Maharaja Permaisuara Pengiran Muda Hj Sufri Bolkiah berkenan berangkat menutup upacara Majlis Istiadat Perkahwinan DiRaja yang telah berlangsung selama 11 hari dengan pembacaan doa dan tembakan hormat 21 das senapang pada 15 April. JULY | AUGUST 2015 27 50 0 SPECIAL FEATURE BEST OF BRUNEI Happy Anniversary Wedding Your Majesties! As His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha celebrate their 50th anniversary this July, MUHIBAH marks their Golden Anniversary with their glorious wedding photos. Words JACQUELINE WONG Images BRUNEI ARCHIVES KDYMM Allah Peliharakan Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam & KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri Sempena ulang tahun Perkahwinan DiRaja ke-50 KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah dan KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha pada bulan Julai ini, MUHIBAH turut meraikan dengan imej peristiwa yang terulung ini. Teks JACQUELINE WONG Imej ARKIB BRUNEI 28 MUHIBAH JULY | AUGUST 2015 29 SPECIAL FEATURE BEST OF BRUNEI 01 The Royal Marriage Solemnisation Ceremony (Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah DiRaja) of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah was held at the Sultan Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Mosque on 28 July, 1965. His Majesty is married to Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, his first cousin. Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah DiRaja KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah telah berlangsung di Masjid Sultan Omar ’Ali Saifuddien pada 28 Julai, 1965. KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan menyempurnakan Majlis Istiadat Akad Nikah DiRaja dengan KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, yang merupakan sepupu Baginda. 01 50 02 The Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah just before His Majesty’s Royal Sitting-inState Ceremony (Majlis Istiadat Bersanding Pengantin DiRaja) on 29 July, 1965. Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ’Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien mengiringi KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ketika berangkat ke Majlis Istiadat Bersanding DiRaja Baginda pada 29 Julai, 1965. 02 30 MUHIBAH 50 03 The royal couple during the Royal Sitting-in-State Ceremony at Istana Darul Hana on 29 July, 1965. 03 Pengantin DiRaja ketika di Majlis Istiadat Bersanding DiRaja di Istana Darul Hana pada 29 Julai, 1965. 04 His Majesty with Her Majesty at the Royal Banquet hosted in their honour. KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan serta KDYMM Paduka Seri Baginda Raja Isteri ketika di Majlis Istiadat Persantapan Pengantin DiRaja. 04 JULY | AUGUST 2015 31 FEATURES Collec t ive Repertoire Colonial never gets old with The M Th Majestic j ti K Kuala l Lumpur’s L ’ unique experiences. Words ANIS RAMLI The Majestic Hotel Kuala Lumpur is an illustrious and genuine historical splendour. True to its original 1930s glamorous spirit as the gathering place of choice in Kuala Lumpur during its heydays before it closed in 1984, the hotel’s sensitively-restored grandiose is a tribute to this rich heritage and hospitality. The re-opening in 2012 continues not just this celebrated legacy, but reacquaints guests with the hotel’s unique English traditions. As it remains steadfast in being an enduring historical icon, it’s time to consider some of the best Majestic experiences not to be missed. THE AFTERNOON TEA A tradition that dates back to the 1800s, the revival of pausing for tea and making tea drinking culture fashionable is a signature of The Majestic. Served to perfection daily, the Afternoon Tea experience is further refined with elegant service: traditional cake stand, exquisite array of tea delights customary of the hour, and polished silverware with fine China and white, starched linen napkins. Then, there are the various venues for you to choose to have your tea. The surreal Orchid Conservatory, the classic Drawing Room or the refurbished Colonial Cafe. 32 MUHIBAH JULY | AUGUST 2015 33 A SNIP AND A SUIT AT THE SMOKE HOUSE Private gentlemen’s clubs were once hallowed institutions of the strictly male aristocrats and upper class society. At The Majestic’s Smoke House, while restoring the languorous and refined resting place geared towards English gents, the place provides a sanctuary for discreet networking and fraternal relations. The hushed decor, plush leather chairs and dim lighting are all inspiration from British gentlemen’s clubs where can be found, among others, a private dining room with a Chef on call, a bespoke tailor, a gentlemen’s grooming parlour and a screening room. In this oasis of tranquility, guests can book an appointment at Truefitt & Hill, a full-service gentleman’s barbershop with an extensive service that includes a traditional hot towel wet shave; or request to have a made-to-measure suit crafted to perfection. The Smoke House Gentleman’s Membership allows you to enjoy the privilege of Truefitt & Hill’s Royal Cut Barber Service that can last a year (12 visits), a night’s stay at the Majestic Wing and dining vouchers at Contango, known for its bountiful buffet spread and lively open kitchen concept. JULY | AUGUST 2015 35 WHAT CAN YOU DO WITH 100MB? 20 EMAILS WITHOUT ATTACHMENT + 3HRS WEB SURFING + 50 POSTS SOCIAL MEDIA + 24 HOURS SOCIAL CHAT SLUMBER IN THE COLONIAL SUITE WING The Majestic Wing delivers vintage architectural charm for those looking to experience the hotel’s old splendour. The 47 luxurious suites are styled to evoke colonial flashbacks albeit with a hint of Art Deco styling. Clean lines meet dark timber flooring, chrome-clawed bath tubs stand against wooden shutters, while a warm palette upholstery plays to a backdrop of decadent linens. Throw modcon luxuries into the mix – flat screen TV, free WiFi and a separate vanity area – and the suites make for a sophisticated city break. It’s a study in English hospitality too, with butlers assigned to every suite floor, providing 24 hours assistance. AN ENGLISH REPOSE AT THE MAJESTIC SPA The award-winning Spa Village brand gets an English twist at The Majestic Spa. Housed in an elegant annexe and styled after Charles Rennie Macintosh’s Willow Tearooms, it literally transports you visually to another world. The extensive treatment menu cues upon the quintessential English feel of manors past, with roses and lavender at the heart of its ingredient. The English Afternoon Tea treatment is a nod to all things sweet and decadent. This luxurious two-hour ritual has a berries scrub made from scratch before the body is treated to a berries oil massage. The fragrant English rose natural facial is a nice touch to the treatment where fresh rose petals prevail. Stressed city folk also opt for the indulgent three-hour Queen Victoria’s Lavender pampering where, under the best hands in the business, you’ll undergo a breathing ritual, have your body scrubbed with lavender buds and have it topped off with a relaxing lavender oil massage. For those looking to make this their regular crash pads, The Majestic Spa Membership gets you 10 complimentary treatments with added extras such as two dining vouchers for 2 at Contango, an overnight stay in the Colonial Suite, 20 percent discount off afternoon tea at the Tea Lounge, and unlimited use of the gym and spa pool. Royal Brunei Airlines flies Kuala Lumpur 2x daily. JULY | AUGUST 2015 37 FEATURES WITH THE FOCUS FIRMLY ON LOCAL, ARTISAN PRODUCES AND MANUFACTURERS, QUEEN VICTORIA MARKET (OR FONDLY CALLED ‘VIC MARKET’ OR ‘QUEEN VIC’), IS WHERE YOU CAN GET THE FLAVOUR OF AUSTRALIA IN ONE PLACE. Sensory Branding The Queen Victoria Market is the grand dame of sight, smell and sound of real Melbourne. Words ANIS RAMLI Images JACQUELINE WONG 38 MUHIBAH SINCE 1878, PRODUCERS AND SELLERS HAVE GATHERED TOGETHER ALMOST EVERY DAY AT THIS HERITAGE MARKETPLACE TO OFFER SHOPPERS FRESH PRODUCE, HANDMADE FOOD AND DELICIOUS SNACKS SPREAD OVER TWO CITY BLOCKS. JULY | AUGUST 2015 39 FEATURES EXPERIENCE THE VIBRANCY OF A WORKING MARKET AND JOIN THE LOCALS AS THEY SHOP. TALK DIRECTLY WITH LOCAL PRODUCERS AND LEARN MORE ABOUT WHERE YOUR FOOD COMES FROM. 40 MUHIBAH WANDER THROUGH THE OLD-FASHIONED DELI HALL AND BE IMPRESSED WITH SPICES FROM ALL OVER THE WORLD. BUTCHERS OFFER NATIVE EXOTIC MEATS LIKE KANGAROO, EMU AND CROCODILE … JULY | AUGUST 2015 41 FEATURES … WHILE IN THE OPEN AIR SECTION, THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE GROWERS DISPLAY ORGANIC AND HERITAGE VEGETABLES AND LOCAL HOMEGROWN VARIETIES. 42 MUHIBAH SOAK UP THE SIGHTS, SMELLS AND SOUNDS THAT HAVE MADE QUEEN VIC PART OF THE CITY’S HISTORY. THE MARKET ALSO OFFERS FOOD, HERITAGE AND ‘MARKET INSIDER’ WALKING TOURS FOR A FEE. www.qvm.com.au Royal Brunei Airlines flies Melbourne daily. JULY | AUGUST 2015 43 FEATURES 01 44 MUHIBAH BarGain BRITAIN Quintessential English experiences that won’t hurt your wallet! Words SURIANI ARIFF Who says UK travel has to be expensive? It takes a little bit of imagination and research to help you get the most of your pound. Much of that has to do with doing what the locals do. VisitEngland For instance, one of the most underrated experiences not known to visitors is taking in London’s sights on a bus tour. But when we say bus tour, we mean a regular bus taken by Londoners and tourists alike. The number 24 is hard to beat: get on at Westminster Abbey, wave to the British Prime Minister as you pass Downing Street, balk at Trafalgar Square, hop off at the theatre district for a half-price show (see below), then continue on to Camden, famous for its cheap kebabs, or to the end of the route at Hampstead. There you can loll about on the heath or take a dip in its pools. 01 Trafalgar Square has been a central meeting place since the Middle Ages! The number 9 is another great route and good for seeing how London’s rich and royal live from aboard an old-style Routemaster bus. The trip begins at Somerset House, takes in Trafalgar Square (get off for the free – and excellent – National Gallery and National Portrait Gallery), continues through Knightsbridge where you can window shop at Harrods from JULY | AUGUST 2015 45 FEATURES VisitEngland/Diana Jarvis 02 02 The Routemaster is London’s formal name for the iconic red bus. 03 The Oyster Card is a pay-as-you-go smartcard for use on all London Transport. 04 You may not see Princess Charlotte, but you can see her digs at Kensington Palace. 05 Afternoon Tea at The Fan Museum is London’s best kept secret. Visit Britain 06 An Afternoon Tea is elegant, dainty and delicious. 03 46 MUHIBAH Visit Britain/Britain on View 04 your passenger seat, then passes the Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Palace, the London home of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge. Shortly before it ends at Hammersmith, the bus stops at Holland Park. Have a picnic here in the Japanese garden and admire the resident peacocks. Tip: get a Visitor Oyster Card before you arrive in Britain and save money and time – start using as soon as you land. And what’s London without catching a West End show? If you head to the TKTS booth in Leicester Square, you could get your hands on excellent on-the-day deals and half price bargains. Those travelling early in January and February should make the most of the Get Into London Theatre scheme, which sees more than 65 top shows selling tickets for £10, £20, £30 or £40. Booking starts in December. 05 06 VisitEngland/VisitYork © The Fan Museum, London For the quintessential English afternoon pastime, a visit to London must include an Afternoon Tea. A combination of Britishness and deliciousness, the best teas are towering with delights both sweet and savoury: sandwiches on the bottom, then scones, then cakes, and all washed down with a pot of Earl Grey (or whatever leaf floats your boat). Afternoon Tea can be taken in many places throughout Britain, but those in the know always head to London’s Fan Museum that consistently wins praise for its ‘best value’ afternoon tea, priced unbelievably at only £7. JULY | AUGUST 2015 47 FEATURES Visit Britain 07 07 The world descends on Wimbledon every summer for two weeks of tennis. 08 Westfield London takes the crown for Europe’s largest shopping centre. 09 Of course you’ve got to catch a West End show in London! Visit Britain Visit Britain 10 Glyndebourne offers world class opera. 08 09 48 MUHIBAH If you’re around for Wimbledon season, did you know that Grounds Admission tickets for south-west London’s Wimbledon Championships can be surprisingly cheap – as little as £15 buys you access to Courts 3-19 (and Henman Hill) for an entire day? This drops to £11 if you enter after 5pm with prices differing depending on the date. For instance, it’s cheaper to go during the second week of the tournament. You do have to queue up for tickets, but the atmosphere is great and queuing is indeed a very British experience in itself. • Watch Glyndebourne’s world class opera for less than you think Going to Glyndebourne is, for some, a summer tradition – and for others a unique, one-off chance to dip into British high society, picnic in sumptuous grounds and dressing in black tie before settling down to world class opera. Yes, some people pay £250 for the privilege, but there are standing tickets available from £10, and if you’re under 30, you can get excellent seats for just £30. The Glyndebourne tour takes in several UK venues, but always starts at Glyndebourne itself, so you can enjoy the grounds in the autumn and get a flavour of the festival for a fraction of the price. Glyndebourne is in Lewes, South East England, approximately an hour by train from London. Visit Britain/Charlotte Boulton Round up your London stay with some discounted shopping. When you buy something on the VisitBritain shop (a good idea if you want to make savings on attractions like Madame Tussauds, London Dungeon and the London Aquarium) you get a VIP pass to Westfield London or Westfield Stratford City offering up to 20% off your purchases. Both Westfields have a mixture of high street and designer stores, as well as fun non-shopping activities like an All Star Lanes bowling alley at the Stratford City branch. Now let’s look at other ways you can maximise fun on a minimum budget around Britain. 10 JULY | AUGUST 2015 49 FEATURES Visit Britain 11 50 MUHIBAH Visit Britain/David Angel 11 Catch the Premier League action backstage with stadium tours. 12 Beaumaris Castle in Anglesey, Wales is just one stunning example of Britain’s wellpreserved history. 12 Visit Britain 13 Powis Castle is a beautiful medieval castle, grand mansion and an old fortress. • Enjoy the footy If, like millions of people around the world, you follow the Barclays Premier League, there is nothing like actually experiencing a match for yourself in Britain, and grabbing the opportunity to indulge your passion for the Beautiful Game on stadium tours and more. Going to a match can be cheaper than you think: Thomas Cook Sport Match Break packages start from £89 (which includes a match ticket and a hotel stay). Meanwhile, stadium tours are a fantastic way for footy fans to go ‘backstage’ and even run through the players’ tunnel out onto the pitch. Manchester City’s tour is £14 on the VisitBritain shop. Manchester is also home to the free National Football Museum, where you can try out a penalty shoot-out and even smell the players’ socks (!) should you wish. It is home to the world’s greatest collection of football collection. 13 • Lord it up in a stately home or a castle Britain is spoiled with hundreds of gorgeous castles and stately homes, which tell the story of lords and ladies, knights and battles, pomp, pageantry and upstairsdownstairs scandals and histories. And so many of them are intact and ready to be explored just as though their JULY | AUGUST 2015 51 FEATURES Visit Britain Visit Britain 14 15 14 Chartwell, in Kent. former inhabitants had popped out for tea with a neighbour – or indeed, in many cases, the owners still live there (but don’t mind you coming to visit). The VisitBritain shop sells passes that let you visit multiple properties and save money in the process. The National Trust touring pass, which costs £25, pays for itself after a couple of visits to properties, so go to a third and you’re saving. And there are plenty to choose between – Winston Churchill’s home, Chartwell, in Kent (South East England), Game of Thrones filming location Castle Ward in Northern Ireland’s County Down, and magical Welsh castle and world famous gardens at Powis Castle and Garden. Scotland has its own National Trust Discover Ticket, priced £22.50. It lasts 14 days, and if you visit one attraction each day you save over £100. Choose from Culzean Castle, the Glencoe Visitor Centre (Glencoe was a Skyfall filming location) and the Robert Burns Birthplace Museum. • Walk into a postcard in Wales Wales is the only country in the world with a continuous path around its entire coastline – aptly named The Wales Coast Path – and to walk around it will cost you nothing. Head to the Isle of Anglesey to walk the beautiful north Wales and fall in love with the landscape, just like the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge did when they lived there. There are more than 600 castles in Wales, and Beaumaris in Anglesey is said to be ‘the most technically perfect castle in Britain’, and only costs £5.25 to visit. Accommodation need not mean a huge expense, and it can mean a totally unique experience. Royal Brunei Airlines flies London daily via Dubai. 52 MUHIBAH 15 It costs you nothing to walk along the scenic Wales Coast Path. 16 A crystal clear view out to the Atlantic Sea from the cliff-tops of Caldey Island on the Pembrokeshire coast. Visit Britain/Britain on View 16 JULY | AUGUST 2015 53 FEATURES A Literary Haven Some of the world’s best independent bookstores and why we love them. Words JEFFREY LIM 54 MUHIBAH Bookstores are magical places. When in a foreign land, it provides a sanctuary for the mind to take respite. It’s a place for you to dream, find inspiration and connect with other passionate book lovers. Independent bookstores are even more special, as there seems to be a ‘connect’ between customer and owner, especially in times when businesses can become impersonal. A great bookstore is more than just books. It builds relationships. Sometimes, there comes along one or two eccentric ones, but that’s okay. In the language of books, every one has a story to tell. Here, some bookstores you should not miss if your travels bring you there. A This is a dream of a bookstore. Located in the basement of one of Santorini’s white houses, Atlantis Books was started by young American and European bibliophiles who fell giddily in love with the Mediterranean. The books are all handpicked by the owners. A haven for readers and writers, the cool quarters also play host to theatres and open-air cinemas, food and film festivals, and writers reading on the terrace. It is one of the most beautiful, if remote, bookstores ever, but with the Aegean Sea staring out at you from the window, who’s complaining? Atlantisbooks.org Atlantis Books Oia, Santorini Island, Greece JULY | AUGUST 2015 55 FEATURES Stanfords’ Long Acre is a revered institution for travellers and world explorers. Having opened its doors in 1901, it has been the first port of call for a wealth of famous travellers including Captain Robert Scott, Sir Ernest Henry Shackleton, Florence Nightingale, Michael Palin, Bill Bryson and Ranulph Fiennes. Since its opening, Stanfords has supplied explorers with the maps, guides and gadgets they need for their expeditions. It was even referred to in the Sherlock Holmes story The Hound of the Baskervilles. Today, it is the world’s largest map retailer and stocks some very specialist items from unusual and hard to find places. Maps, books, travel accessories, globes – there is always something inspiring to find for your next adventure. stanfords.co.uk Stanfords S London, United Kingdom 56 MUHIBAH D Small and modest, this bookstore with branches in Petaling Jaya, Shah Alam and Bangi has gained a large following for various reasons. Foremost of which is its wide collection of authentic Islamic books from renowned publishers such as Darussalam, IBT and Goodword. There are also multimedia, CDs and DVDs by such acclaimed speakers like Mufti Ismail Menk, Sheikh Hussain Yee, Dr Bilal Philips, Dr Zakir Naik and Sheikh Yusuf Estes, as well as children’s books and games. In addition, Dakwah Corner often hosts conferences and motivational talks, such as the recent Straight Path Convention with speakers Abdurraheem Green and Dr Muhammad Salah, to name a few, both known for their contemporary Islamic lectures in accordance with the Qur’an and authentic teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). dakwahbookstore.com.my Dakwah Corner Bookstore Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia JULY | AUGUST 2015 57 Kiren FEATURES S This legendary bookstore in Paris was once the favourite hangout for Ernest Hemingway, Anais Nin, Henry Miller and James Joyce. Set in an early 17thcentury building, customers and tourists alike come here to to be transported in time. Weather-battered book racks, rustic signage – it all harks back to the Paris of yesteryear. Inside are shelves and tables packed with books, a narrow stairs and reading nooks all around. Opened in 1951 where plumbing was even questionable, the bookstore now has touches of the 21st Century, with an annual summer readings and a cafe. It is indeed, a Paris literary institution. And yes, the plumbing thankfully works now. shakespeareandcompany.com Shakespeare and Company Bonnie Elliott Paris, France 58 MUHIBAH This two-storey shop occupying a beautiful building in Cape Town’s Eastern Precinct boasts of beautiful biblios and interiors. Graceful chandeliers hang above comfy armchairs, large windows overlook the street, and the air is relaxed with an old world charm, thanks to the heritage building it occupies. The kids section hosts storytelling every Saturday, while adults can browse through various titles and sit at the lounge with a menu of coffee, tea and cupcakes. The Book Lounge also offers other interesting programmes periodically, such as interviews with authors and book launches. B booklounge.co.za The Book Lounge Cape Town, South Africa JULY | AUGUST 2015 59 Atari FEATURES Three swanky buildings connect together with a 55-meter long aisle cutting through the middle at ground level. This basically forms the foundation for the six book emporium that branches out by category. Cafe space is housed within the complex to allow for leisurely in-store browsing. There are vintage books, back issue magazines, art books, a specialist camera store – even a travel desk with a concierge to help you plan what you’re just only browsing. A lounge and convenience store completes the cool, campus-like environment, and certainly it is the most sophisticated bookstore ever built. D http://tsite.jp/daikanyama/store-service/ tsite-en.html Daikanyama T Tokyo, Japan 60 MUHIBAH C Located in an industrial building in the inner courtyard of a traditional Milanese palazzo, 10 Corso Como is a network of spaces all rolled into one experience. Founded in 1990, 10 Corso Como is a multifunctional space, a meeting place, union of culture and commerce and marks the beginning of total shopping. The bookstore has an amazing selection of publication on art, architecture, design, graphics, fashion and photography. It’s been described as one of the world’s coolest bookshops. Which isn’t surprising. After all, this is the place the city’s fashion, art and design illuminati hang out. 10corsocomo.com 10 Corso Como Milan, Italy JULY | AUGUST 2015 61 Kenneth Luoto FEATURES A The Helsinki flagship store is the largest bookshop in Scandinavia. Within the famed architectural design of Finnish Alvar Aalto houses a wide-ranging selection of titles in English, German, Italian, and other languages (more than 400,000 in stock). Its minimalist marble interior is reason enough for a visit, lit by geometric glass skylights that illuminate all three of its floors. The second floor balcony Cafe Aalto is a great place to unwind with its own bakery. akateeminen.com Academic Bookstore Kenneth Luoto Helsinki, Finland 62 MUHIBAH Piccolo Angelo Photography L In its history The Little Bookroom has only had three sets of owners, all of whom have been committed to continuing its iconic legacy: dedicating itself to the kids’ audience. Shoppers come here to immerse themselves in hundreds of beautifully illustrated books that are bursting with colour. It delights not just the kids, but adults, too. As the first children’s bookstore in Australia, there is little The Little Bookroom does not do to keep the young ones happy. Apart from the hundreds of book titles in contemporary children’s literature, there are also engaging storytelling sessions and storytime yoga that continues to endear this shop to many. littlebookroom.com.au The Little Bookroom Melbourne, Australia JULY | AUGUST 2015 63 FEATURES MuslimFriendly TA PEI Why this city should be on your travel list. Words ANIS RAMLI Images TAIWAN TOURISM BUREAU 01 01 A sea of calla liies at Zhuzihu. 02 Crowds are a mainstay at the nightmarkets. 64 MUHIBAH Neatly stacked firewood, piled high, created a stunning partition between the entrance and the open kitchen. There were others freshly chopped, too; the axe still lying on the ground amid a pile of solid logs. Beyond this was a rustic but clean dining area. Behind this on an elevated fenced yard, black-feathered chickens roam free. The smell of woodfire from the kiln brought our gaze back to the kitchen. We were at the bottom of Yangmingshan National Park. The woodfire-roasted chicken is the specialty of this non-descript eatery, bordered by a clear bubbling river on one side and verdant trees on the other. And it is halal. 02 JULY | AUGUST 2015 65 FEATURES 03 66 MUHIBAH On our own, we would not have found this place. But our guide, Ishag Ma, fulltime tour guide and part time Imam at the Taipei Grand Mosque, knows just about every other place in Taipei that is Muslim-friendly. “Eat, eat,” he gestured to us. Not that we needed much encouragement. The chicken was succulent and juicy, its flavours enhanced only by salt and pepper. It was accompanied by rice, fresh vegetables and another chicken dish – this time fried with basil, chilli and soy sauce. “We just slaughtered the chicken a few hours ago – before you came,” offered the Indonesian kitchen helper shyly. “We won’t slaughter if we’re not cooking. They taste fresher that way.” 04 05 It’s difficult to come to Taiwan, known as the streetfood capital of the world, and not talk about its food. Thankfully, the country has become increasingly easier to navigate of late for Muslim travellers. Ma, who works at Pro-Tour Express Inc, is an old hand at hosting Muslim travellers to Taiwan. “(Halal) food has always been an issue before but not anymore,” he says. With 180,000 Muslim tourists arriving Taiwan last year, there is greater push by the Government to have more halal-certified restaurants in major tourist attractions. In Taiwan’s capital, these have included the National Palace Museum and Taipei 101. However, food is not the only thing that has made Taipei a friendly Muslim city. The city ranked fifth in Personal Safety in the recently published Safe Cities Index 2015. Its streets are considered one of the world’s safest since the first city surveillance project in Taiwan began in 2009. Today, Taipei’s 14,000 surveillance cameras installed at 11,500 key points throughout the city help monitor public safety and reduce crime significantly. “It’s true,” says Faika Ahsan, a student at Taiwan’s prestigious National Taiwan University of Science and Technology (NTUST). “Women in hijab can feel safe on the streets. No one would bother you.” 03 The National Palace Museum displays the world’s greatest and rarest collection of traditional Chinese artefacts. 04 Near Jiufen is the Crown Prince Chalet, one of the bestpreserved wood Japanesestyle houses in Taiwan. 05 Some restaurants in Taipei 101 have gained the halal status. 06 A Taiwanese fried chicken dish at Yunus Halal Restaurant. 06 JULY | AUGUST 2015 67 FEATURES 07 So that night, too tired to sleep, we decided to look for Taipei’s famous aftermidnight jaunt. Not a club, but something even better. Halal entertainment that comes in the form of a 24-hour bookstore. Before you scoff at the thought of an insipid shop with uninspired rows of book racks, know that Eslite Bookstore Xinyi is a towering eight-storey building with a built-up area of 8,000sqm. Styled more like a shopping mall, it houses shops that sell bags, jewellery, kitchenware, writing instruments, food, and of course, books. There is also a children’s museum and an exhibition and culture hall. Even in the wee hours of the morning, the books section was as busy as a Middle Eastern medina. Two basketball players (their jersey jackets were a dead giveaway) laid stretched out on the floor. On a raised platform, a pack of college kids whispered surreptitiously, while at a corner table sits a strikingly pretty female. We think she’s a model. But they all have one thing in common: the love of books. And the titles here are extensive. More than 1 million books and 300,000 titles! 68 MUHIBAH 07 If you don’t mind the crowds, Jiufen’s mountainous air is refreshing. 08 Yehliu makes for nice pictures to send home. 08 Everyone’s welcome to browse, or use the lounges to catch their forty winks. Just be careful to keep your coffee at arm’s length from the books to avoid unnecessary accidents. The next day, Ma suggested we drive to Jiufen and Yehliu. Both are covered extensively in any Taipei tourist literature. Jiufen, the much-publicised inspiration for Hayao Miyazaki’s Spirited Away, is a vertical, cobblestoned city with snaking shops built close to each other in a mountainous village once known for its gold mines. The trouble with a tourist spot like this is that it can feel like a tourist trap, particularly when met with unscrupulous traders. Overcrowded and overpriced souvenir shops looked set to mar our visit, until we found a mom-and-pops cafe to stop for hot chocolate. It could easily be mistaken for someone’s home – with an antique typewriter, mismatched chairs and Pops lounging alongside customers watching daytime soap on his vintage TV. The service was cheery, though we could not understand Mandarin; the crisp mountain air a welcome break form the stuffy lanes; and the view through the open windows was breathtaking. 09 Don’t miss the chance to savour Taiwan’s seafood. of ballet slippers. Like any other tourist attractions, the long queue for tickets was expected as were the dozens of tourist buses. We were more interested with the fishing port, its locals and the many seafood restaurants along the main road. It was unfortunate that none of the restaurants were Muslim-friendly, but we did get to feast our eyes on some interesting catch form the sea, including eels and the famous Wanli Crab (Taiwan’s best sea crab). Seeing that Taipei is just an hour’s drive back away, it wasn’t hard to make the decision to return to the city to have a proper halal meal. This time it’s the Chinese Halal Beef Noodle restaurant at Da’an. Again, we thanked Ma for his insider knowledge. 09 Forty minutes away is Yehliu Geological Park, famous for its rock landscapes formed through centuries of erosions. Brochures showed unique rock images – some resembled a female’s head, another, a pair JULY | AUGUST 2015 69 FEATURES 10 11 70 MUHIBAH 10 Go for an evening stroll at Danshui Fisherman’s Wharf. 11 The thermal valley of Beitou is famous for its hot springs. 12 Muslims are thought to first arrive in Taiwan, formerly known as Formosa, in 1661 after the fall of the Ming Dynasty. However, the majority of Taiwanese Muslims found today are believed to be descendants of the Kuomintang (KMT) Chinese Nationalist Party that settled in Taiwan after Chiang Kai-Shek’s defeat by Communist China. In 1960, Taipei got its first mosque, the Taipei Grand Mosque, built with local funding and aid from the Shah of Iran and the King of Jordan. Another, the Taipei Culture Mosque, while founded in 1950, had its humble beginnings in a Japanese-style home that was used as a prayer hall. A new building and extensive renovations in 1982 saw the Taipei Culture Mosque built as a new 5-storey building as it stands today. Conservative estimates put Taiwan as having about 50,000 Taiwanese Muslims and 230,000 Muslim Indonesian workers. 12 & 13 The Taipei Grand Mosque was built with local funding and aid from the Shah of Iran and the King of Jordan. 13 Hadziq Fabroyir, President of NTUST’s International Muslim Students Association says, “When Taiwan’s mainstream media started highlighting Muslims and Islamic issues, there has been greater awareness of Muslims in this country.” Previously, all that is known of Muslims among the locals is that “Muslims do not eat pork and men can have many wives,” Fabroyir says laughing. Today, in its approach to make Taiwan a Muslim-friendly country, the government has helped provide a Muslim prayer room at Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (there are also rooms for other faiths) and more recently in February 2015, the Taipei Main Station followed suit with a Muslim prayer room on its basement floor, making it the only transportation facility in Taiwan to offer such service. “But alhamdulillah,” Fabroyir continued, “there is no issue for the Muslim to pray at any public spaces in Taipei – whether at the stairwell of a mall or a quiet corner in the subway station. Prayer facilities may be far and wide, but there is great tolerance for people of other faiths here in Taipei and no one will bother you if you pray openly.” There is much to love about Taipei than it just being Muslim friendly. Taxis are affordable and drivers generally honest, even if they have a poor command of English. Nature is closer to Taipei than you think, with incredible escapes that can be done in an hour or a day’s trip. There are the calla lilies farms in Zhuzihu, hotpsrings in Beitou and strawberry picking in the hills of Neihu. Certainly with so many things to discover, Taipei needs a return visit to be fully appreciated. Royal Brunei Airlines flies Hong Kong daily for connection to Taipei. JULY | AUGUST 2015 71 LIFESTYLE MOTORING Bentley’s BIG Unveil EXP 10 Speed 6 is a British interpretation of a high performance two-seater sportscar. From the racing success of the company’s early years to the international motorsport success of today, ‘speed’ is part of Bentley’s DNA. This inspiration is expressed throughout the EXP 10 Speed 6, where iconic Bentley design cues are fused with progressive craftsmanship techniques and modern technologies. Copper elements are used as accents to both exterior and interior features to highlight the performance hybrid potential of the concept’s advanced new powertrain. Performance goals including top speed are set to challenge competitors and define a new segment benchmark. 72 MUHIBAH The exterior design of EXP 10 Speed 6 is an expression of muscular, athletic surfaces inspired by the aerodynamic shapes of aircraft fuselages and wings. The ethos of the design was to develop contemporary interpretations of Bentley styling cues, which have been brought together with beauty and precision. The result is a coupe of clean, modern surfaces whilst remaining unmistakably Bentley. Creating exciting contemporary ideas from classic starting points is evident across the car, from the new interpretation of the iconic Bentley matrix grille and four-round headlamps to the paint colour – a deeper, richer and heavily metallic version of British Racing Green. The principles of established Bentley luxury have been applied in new and invigorating ways that use the latest technologies and techniques. The shapes and lines of EXP 10 Speed 6 represent a dynamic sculpture, creating harmony between sharp lines and flowing surfaces and using twisted surfaces to imply speed. Combined with muscular proportions and an athletic stance through the use of a short front overhang, long bonnet, low grille and wide rear shape with a long C-post, the exterior styling hints at high speed potential of the car. Every exterior material and each individual detail is designed to modern Bentley style. Cutting-edge 3D metal printing technology has allowed the grille mesh, exhausts, door handles and side vents to be delivered with micro-scale design detail precision. The iconic Bentley mesh grille, for example, is no longer a flat plane of latticework but includes varying depth with a complex 3D geometry only visible when viewed at an angle. Bentley’s renowned quilted leather has inspired three dimensional texture to the precision glass of the headlamps. These exterior elements come together to present a Bentley for the next generation – lean, toned and exquisitely precise, designed around new evolutions of the design elements that unite all Bentleys – past, present and future. The inspiration for the interior comes from the continuous line that runs around the cabin, driving through the console and into two symmetrical wings before flowing into the door and looping back into the console armrest. Two elegant quilted sports seats are positioned either side of the narrow centre console which houses exquisite driver controls and a highly intuitive 12” touch screen. These features combine futuristic technology seamlessly with progressive Bentley craftsmanship. Bentley’s EXP 10 Speed 6 personifies the future direction of luxury and performance using the finest materials and advanced hybrid technology. Each detail has taken core Bentley interior DNA principles and moved them forwards. For example, the classic and purposeful Bentley knurled surface is a feature throughout the controls of the car, but now created using steel and copper together to create a two-metal 3D texture. Continuing the fusion of traditional materials and contemporary design statements, the doors of EXP 10 Speed 6 feature 3D quilting, milled directly in to solid straightgrain cherry wood. Each resulting diamond is finished with a copper centre. The centre console integrates digital information with tactile controls via a curved touch screen housed in an aluminium frame. The fascia instruments deploy from a flat position into the drivers view as the car is started using the floating “B” button integrated in to a non-symmetrical gear lever finished in aluminium, copper and cherry wood. A mechanical rev counter and digital display combine to provide the perfect balance of modern driver information and analogue beauty. The rear interior space is divided into two compartments designed to house a specifically designed four-piece luggage set. Like the rest of the interior, the rear has been trimmed by the master craftsmen at Bentley in the highest quality Poltrona Frau leather. JULY | AUGUST 2015 73 LIFESTYLE THE BUZZ LEAF LIFE Give your body a modern day tea ceremony. The Body Shop has created a reviving detox ritual for the skin with its new Fuji Green Tea range. Whether it’s a tea bath, a body butter or a body sprtiz, the line is a great way to put fresh back in your step. Discover these and other seasonal discounts and promotions by visiting The Body Shop branches at The Mall, Yayasan, Giant, Times Square, Brunei International Airport, Kiulap and Kuala Belait. thebodyshop.co.uk BARELY THERE In Italy, cobbling is an art form, and no one does it better than di San Giacomo. Handmade sandals get dressed up a notch with intricate jewellery that you can choose for your own, colourful leather and chains. Flat or heeled, men’s or women’s, it’s great to know you can get your shoes done right on the spot. GAME ON The One watch from Komono, with matte black metal case and stainless steel back, one piece genuine leather wristband, and one handed Japanese quartz movement is truly “The One”. One size, one colour and one glance is all you need to tell the time. This revolutionary index system truly strips timetelling to its bare bones. disangiacomo.com komono.com TIME TRAVEL Looking to streamline your holiday activities? Make My Day by Lonely Planet helps travellers to customise their itineraries. The spiral bound companion makes for easy mix and match of itineraries and is great for quick city visits. Each book includes a fold-out map, eateries, travel time suggestions and more. Available at all good bookstores. NATURAL LINES In the face of mass production, Yayokie’s hip, handcrafted wooden eyewear is a big bonus. Like this attentiongrabbing glamorous pair in beautiful peacock grab w o oo wooden frame. Expandable with polarised lenses th tha thatt also provides 100% UV400 protection. lonelyplanet.com yayokie.com.my yay ya yyayo ayo a y ki ki 74 MUHIBAH CLOSET DETOX We like Cuyana’s idea of the lean closet movement. This sustainable online retailer advocates shopping slow and making informed choices, because often times, impulse buying creates a wardrobe full of junk that we don’t wear. Cuyana offers quality, classic and timeless styles that go the distance. Their Classic Tote is a great example of durability and functionality crafted to last. cuyana.com WHAT’S NEW Highlights and trends from around the globe. BORN TO RUN, MADE TO ROLL You weren’t made to sit still. Fortunately, neither was Eastpak’s huge and still growing range of travel gear. From well-organised, compact carry-ons with integrated laptop sleeves to dual compartment trolleys and roomy holdalls, our travel bags are built tough, water repellent and lightweight and come with an assortment of handy design features to match your personality, your destination, and of course, your stuff. The lockable zippers on all our models ensure your belongings stay yours! The incredibly smooth wheeling systems of our trolleys mean they will follow you almost anywhere. And when you’re done travelling, our tough fabric top shells let you store your luggage flat and compact, or even inside each other. WING IT Flock together in support of a worthy cause. Birds of a Feather Pink Sorbet from Glasshouse Fragrances supports Australia’s McGrath Foundation for breast care nurses with this candle. It features a Summery blend of grapefruit, lemon and watermelon, offering a refreshing treat for anyday relaxation. glasshousefragrances.com As always, our travel items come in almost all our bold and beautiful colours and seasonal prints. To help you stand out from the crowd and your luggage, from the airport to the conveyor belt. eastpak.com In Brunei, get your EASTPAK at • Main office: PELANGI DE’MUTIARA TOURIST SQUARE SDN BHD Unit 13-14, Ground Floor, Block C, Latifuddin Complex, Pengkalan Gadong, Jalan Tungku Link, Gadong BE2119 | Tel 673-2456141, 673-2456143 | Fax 673-2456142 Branches: LUGGAGE, HANDBAG & TRAVEL ACCESSORIES SHOP @ New Passenger Terminal Building, Brunei International Airport | HUA HO DEPARTMENT STORE, 1st Floor, Bunut Branch, Kg Bunut, Jalan Tutong. • JULY | AUGUST 2015 75 Sant orini LIFESTYLE TAKE 5 Sublime Experience island life in one of the jewels of the Aegean Sea. SEE Go to Fira, the stunning old port town. You can take the cable car, ride a mule, or if you feel like burning calories, walk down the 580-odd steps to the port. Then join the daily tour to Nea Kameni, a still-active volcanic island and Agios Nikolaos for a swim in the famous thermal spas of Palea Kameni. DO Rent an ATV and drive to Perissa for the Black Beach, or up to the Red Beach for a breathtaking view. Akrotiri is great for history buffs as it has one of the best preserved ancient settlements in Greece. If you are staying in Fira, you should travel to Oia for its unforgettable sunsets. SHOP Forget kitschy souvenirs. Look out for local food products instead. The fertile volcanic soil that forms the island make for flavourful cherry tomatoes. Sun-dried is best. Another specialty is Chlorotiri (sour cheese made from goat’s milk) and white aubergines. Another of Santorini’s most sought after souvenirs are jewelleries. Best places for them are Porphyra and Kostas Antoniou. 76 MUHIBAH STAY Canaves Oia provides solitude with a view. Away from the bustling crowd, you’ll not complain with rooms that boast of gorgeous balconies with caldera views. Built on the side of the hills, the luxurious suites are built from old cave houses indigenous to the area. And there’s a Jacuzzi in every room. Try to beat that! Royal Brunei Airlines flies Singapore 2x daily for connections to Athens. LOOKING FOR PRIVATE DINING Book your next event at the Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam Whether you are looking to host an event, our Jungle View Room located in the Business Class Lounge on Level 6 is available for your breakfast meeting, business lunch or a group dinner. As relaxed or formal as you like. We can customized the menu ranging from B$55net per person; or if there is something specific you prefer, please let us know. With a beautifully designed room seating from 2 up to 20 guests, this is the perfect setting with natural daylight, dedicated and personalized service as well as impeccable food. 48 hours advance notice is required. Phone : (673) 224 4272 Fax : (673) 222 1579 Email : [email protected] Jalan Tasek Bandar Seri Begawan BS8211 Brunei Darussalam LIFESTYLE TRAVEL DIARY National Museum of Singapore WHAT’S ON 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. SINGAPORE 21-29 Aug BRUNEI DARUSSALAM SINGAPORE NIGHT FESTIVAL Art and culture spill onto the streets around Bras Basah/ Bugis area when dusk falls at the Singapore Night Festival. Aerial performances, art installations, hawker food stalls – even the museums open at night for special events. Experience the island’s arts and culture like never before. Information Department Brunei www.brasbasahbugis.sg/SNFPortal 17-19 Jul HARI RAYA AIDILFITRI With the end of Ramadhan, friends and family gather to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri. To further liven up this festive occasion, the Brunei Royal Family opens the doors of Istana Nurul Iman and welcomes everyone to partake in this joyous celebration. Istana Nurul Iman Hari Raya Aidilfitri Open House welcomes visitors over a period of three days commencing from the second day of Hari Raya on *17 to 19 July, 2015. (*Subject to the sighting of the moon). www.bruneitourism.travel AUSTRALIA 14-19 Jul THE GRUFFALO’S CHILD Based on an award-winning picture book by Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler, the Gruffalo returns to Melbourne’s National Theatre with his child in this charming sequel – The Gruffalo’s Child. A wondrous combination of theatre, music and puppetry, this magical musical will capture the hearts of children and adults alike. www.ticketmaster.com.au 78 MUHIBAH 16-19 Jul THEAKSTONS OLD PECULIER CRIME WRITING FESTIVAL As the biggest crime writing festival in Europe, reading aficionados have much to look forward to. Bringing together the best in crime fiction in a series of events, the festival that will be held in Old Swan Hotel, Harrogate, will engage attendees through provoking panel sessions, dedicated writing workshops, and a special exclusive event on the ‘new’ Stieg Larsson book. harrogateinternationalfestivals.com UNITED KINGDOM 2425 The moving bamboo grove by Koon Wai-bong HONG KONG MALAYSIA Jul This year’s festival at Sutera Habour will be graced by Motown Legend Bobby Taylor who will be flying into Kota Kinabalu with Royal Brunei Airlines. His unique rendition of Motown favourites rearranged into a jazz setting will sure to delight crowds. Other performers include Gugun Blues (Hard Rock Cafe Battle 2011 winner), Shun Ng (Boston Music 2014 International Artist of the Year winner), Liyana Fizi (YES artist of the month), and many more. kkjazzfest.com THE PAST IS CONTINUING The past paves the road of our future. This contemporary art exhibition at the Hong Kong Heritage Museum will take visitors through the past 100 years of changes that took place in Hong Kong. Transport yourself through time with works from 18 featured artists. Now til hk.heritage.museum 28 Sep UNITED ARAB EMIRATES 9-29 Jul Aug MODHESH WORLD Dubai World Trade Centre’s Modhesh World is the ultimate destination for kids. Spanning eight halls, each with its own unique identity and adventures, Modhesh World is not only a place for children to have fun, but inspire and encourage their curious young minds. There’s the first-of-its-kind indoor GoKarting track, a mirror maze, a shooting gallery, as well as exciting rides. www.modheshworld.com www.modheshworld.com KOTA KINABALU JAZZ FESTIVAL JULY | AUGUST 2015 79 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 80 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 Mobile phones cannot be used at any time during the flight. They should be switched off as soon as the cabin crew makes the announcement. Other electronic devices included in this list are: Citizen’s band (CB) radio, remote-controlled devices (such as 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. JULY | AUGUST 2015 81 WELCOME ONBOARD radio-controlled toys), and transmitting devices that emit radio frequencies. These devices 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: Personal computers, FM receivers, calculators, electronic shavers, audio and video recorders, hand-held computer games, and playback devices. 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. Lithium Batteries Non-smoking Policy 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. Royal Brunei Airlines operates non-smoking flights to all destinations. Low and medium powered rechargeable batteries in equipment and limited quantity 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 82 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. JULY | AUGUST 2015 83 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 84 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 GLOBAL AIR SERVICES CORPORATION G/F SGV II Bldg, 6758 Ayala Ave, Makati City, The Philippines 1200 T: (63) 2 864 0801 to 05 F: (63) 2 891 0435 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] JULY | AUGUST 2015 85 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 July 2015 Ramadhan 1436 / Syawal 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 31 14 15 16 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 Day Wed Thu Fri Sat Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Tue Wed Thu Fri Imsak 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.41 4.41 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.43 4.44 4.44 4.44 4.44 4.45 4.45 4.45 4.45 4.45 Subuh 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.51 4.51 4.51 4.52 4.52 4.52 4.52 4.53 4.53 4.53 4.53 4.54 4.54 4.54 4.54 4.55 4.55 4.55 4.55 4.55 Syuruk 6.11 6.12 6.12 6.12 6.12 6.14 6.14 6.14 6.14 6.14 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 Doha 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.41 6.41 Hijriah Zohor Asar Sun Mon 6.13 6.13 6.13 6.13 6.13 6.14 4.41 6.15 6.16 6.16 Sun Mon 6.16 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 3.51 3.52 3.52 3.52 3.52 3.52 3.52 3.52 3.50 3.50 3.50 3.49 Maghrib 6.36 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.37 6.37 6.37 Isyak 7.52 7.53 7.53 7.53 7.53 7.53 7.53 7.51 7.51 7.50 86 7.52 MUHIBAH 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.53 3.52 7.52 3.52 7.52 3.51 7.52 3.51 7.52 3.51 7.52 3.51 7.52 3.51 7.52 3.50 7.51 7.51 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. August 2015 Syawal 1436 / Zulqaedah 1436 Date Hijriah Day 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 16 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 Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Imsak 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 4.47 Subuh 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 4.57 Syuruk 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.16 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.15 6.14 6.14 6.14 6.14 Doha 6.41 6.41 6.41 6.41 6.41 6.41 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.40 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.39 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.38 6.37 Zohor Asar Sat Sun Mon 6.16 Sun Mon 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.28 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.27 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.26 12.25 12.25 12.25 12.25 12.24 12.24 12.24 12.24 12.23 12.23 12.23 12.22 3.49 3.49 3.48 3.48 3.46 3.46 3.45 3.45 3.44 3.42 3.42 3.41 3.40 3.40 3.38 3.37 3.37 3.36 Maghrib 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.37 6.36 6.36 6.36 6.36 6.35 6.35 6.35 6.35 6.34 6.34 6.34 6.33 6.33 6.33 6.33 6.32 6.32 6.31 6.31 6.31 6.30 6.30 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.28 6.28 Isyak 7.50 7.50 7.49 7.48 7.47 7.47 7.47 7.45 7.44 7.44 7.44 7.42 7.42 7.41 7.50 3.48 7.49 3.47 7.49 3.47 7.48 7.48 3.44 7.46 3.43 7.46 7.45 3.39 7.43 7.43 3.35 7.41 3.34 7.40 3.33 7.40 3.33 7.39 3.32 7.39 JULY | AUGUST 2015 3.31 3.30 7.38 7.38 87 ADVERTORIAL BEST-IN-CLASS SERVICES at KPJ TAWAKKAL SPECIALIST HOSPITAL Choosing the best and suitable hospital for your medical treatment is not an easy task. Regardless of a routine treatment or a serious ailment, the right choice of healthcare centre can ensure you a speedy recovery, alongside being given the best care, warm services and hospitality. Along with proper medical care, KPJ Tawakkal Specialist Hospital (KPJTSH) offers best-in-class services to meet all your healthcare needs. Established in 1984 by a group of doctors, KPJTSH today belongs to the largest network of private hospitals under the flagship of KPJ Healthcare Bhd. facilities to its patients. We were the first to set up a digital operating theatre with a dedicated navigation system in Malaysia encompassing the audiovideo, communication and information technology, offering patients and consultants the very best and the latest in digital surgical technology. In addition, planned patient care areas include 4 wellequipped Operating Theatres, an Intensive Care and Coronary Care Unit, Maternity Unit, Cathlab, MRI, CT Scan, Mammogram, Laboratory, Physiotherapy, Diagnostic Imaging, Dietetics, 24-hours Accident and Emergency Unit, Cardiology facilities, Medical Screening and Pharmacy Services. Located in the heart of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, KPJTSH provides a full range of state-of-the-art diagnostic and treatment Supported by 39 Resident Consultants, 15 Sessional Consultants, and over 700 dedicated staff, KPJTSH further promotes itself as being a model for excellence for clinical care, teaching and medical leadership. We are also proud to be certified with the Integrated Management System (IMS) and recognised as A Baby Friendly Hospital. Our dedicated International Patient Centre provides the same top-notch healthcare services to foreign patients that include guests from Indonesia, South East Asia, Africa and Middle East. KPJTSH’s conducive location also makes it a viable choice for those looking for a hassle-free hospital stay. Many 5-star hotels and various malls are located within easy reach, while the National Heart Institute, National Blood Bank and Institute of Medical Research is also within close proximity. GHK GROUP OF COMPANIES GHK MOTORS SDN. BHD. Your Support, Our Success DAHA AUTO SDN. BHD. GHK AUTO ASSEMBLY SDN. BHD. Used Car Division The first commercial and heavy vehicles assembly plant in Brunei Darussalam. Awarded with Bureau Veritas ISO 9001 Certification for Quality. Office & Showroom Lot 13, Perindustrian Beribi ll Gadong, Bandar Seri Begawan Brunei Darussalam. Tel: +673 245 1210, 245 1213/4/5/6 Fax: +673 245 1213 • Factory & Assembly Plant Lot 13 - 15, Kompleks Perindustrian Serasa Bandar Seri Begawan, Brunei Darussalam Tel: +673 277 3872/3 Fax: +673 277 3871 MBA INSURANCE COMPANY SDN. BHD. For all your insurance needs! Head Office & Administration 1st Floor, Unit 15, 16 & 17 Lot 8794, Bangunan Hj Hassan Abdullah Kg. Menglait, Gadong BE3978 P. O. Box 57, Seri Complex BA1799 Brunei Darussalam. Tel: +673 244 1535 (Hunting Line) Fax: +673 244 1534 MITSUBISHI AND DAIHATSU SALES DIVISION P. O. Box 1031, BS8672, Brunei Darussalam | Tel +673 242 3423, 242 0882, 244 6188 | Fax +673 242 6295 | Email [email protected] | Website www.ghkmotors.com CHRYSLER SALES DIVISION Sumbangsih Bahagia, Lot 77-B Kompleks Perindustrian Beribi ll, Jln Gadong, BE1118, Bandar Seri Begawan | Tel +673 242 6205, 242 6206, 242 6207 | Fax +673 242 6201 | Websites www.chrysler.com.bn, www.jeep.com.bn, www.dodge.com.bn CHEVROLET SALES DIVISION Sumbangsih Bahagia, Lot 77-B Kompleks Perindustrian Beribi ll, Jln Gadong, BE1118, Bandar Seri Begawan | Tel +673 242 6205, 242 6206, 242 6207 | Fax +673 242 6202 | Kuala Belait Branch KB Showroom - MJJR Shop Units 1, 2 & 3, Jalan Jaya Negara, Kuala Belait | Tel +673 333 6372, 333 6373, 333 5740 | Fax +673 333 5720 • Muhibah_175x230mm_JulAug2015_Cover.indd 2 • 6/29/15 10:58 AM roya l b ru n e i a ir l in e s | July - August 2015 BY ROYA L B R U N E I A I R L I N E S | July - August 2015 Muhibah_175x230mm_JulAug2015_Cover.indd 1 B runei’s Roya l Wedding Al bum 6/29/15 10:58 AM