Inspired! - GoD's GiFT!

World's Strongest Man

2011-03-15T08:53:00.000-07:00

Ever seen a man pull an 18 tonne truck with only using his hair? Ever seen a man bend metal bars, metal chains using his bare hands? Ever seen a man lift a 27 kilo brick using only his teeth? Can you imagine a 3 tonne automobile drive over your arm?

I have witness an automobile drove over his arm and he broke metal chains using his bare hands.. Now it is your turn. Come one, come all and watch the World's Strongest Man perform LIVE in Brunei Darussalam.

You can view all the stunts right here in Brunei Darussalam. Thamer Al Jouhari, dubbed one of the World's Strongest Man will be performing all these record stunts and many more at the Indoor Stadium of the National Stadium Complex in Berakas every evening at starting at 7.30pm from 18th of March until the 22nd of March 2011.

There will also be extra shows at 3.30pm on the 19th and 20th of March 2011.

With tickets only as $12.00 per person for adult and $6.00 per child, you can witness all the feats performed by the World's Strongest Man. Tickets are available at the venue on show days. The tickets can also be obtained at Tumasek Petrol Station in Jalan Tutong, ANSH Food Court and The Mall Atrium in Gadong.

Thamer Al Jouhari will also be making a two day appearance and a free photoshoot in Kuala Belait for the public at Soon Lee Mega Mart on the 16th and 17th of March 2011 from 2.00pm to 9.00pm.

Long Sunday

2011-01-17T09:06:00.001-08:00

Yesterday was a normal Sunday but it seems very long to me.

1st of all, I woke up too early.. then I sent my sister to the softball field as she is one of the official scorers for the softball tournament. The I went off to the airport to cover some Takraw officials flying off to Thailand for a technical congress and they kinda knew my family and went on talking and talking... from sports, where I worked before, to my dad and to booking for a catering for their association's meeting.

Then went back to the softball field where we played in the semi finals.. after the match, I was covered with mud from head to toe.. literally.. I had to dive for a bunted fly ball and fell flat in the mud.

We lost the match and continued playing in the second semi final and yeah we managed to win that match and qualify ourselves to the grand final. Which we were informed to be played at a later date due to bad weather (it was raining heavily.. but we played both semi finals in the rain and mud) and unsatisfactory playing pitch.

So we decided to go to a local restaurant nearby to grab a bite.. I just arrived and ordered soto and Milo but I had to leave as I was informed that a house was on fire. I had to rush to the scene as I didn't want to miss out the flames. As I got there, I saw the house was engulfed by flames and only 1 fire engine was there. Moments later another fire truck came with an APU (don't ask me but I don't know what it is.. ask some fireman).

It was raining heavily and I watched as the firemen extinguished the flames but there were still lots of smoke and I was standing in the rain taking photos and waiting for information from the investigating and operational team for more than an hour and a half.

I finally got my information and went to the old house which was nearby to go to the toilet. When I went out, a customer who was buying satay hit my car as she was leaving. I was shocked.. it was still raining and I inspected the car. The lens of the front light was cracked as well as the turn light. We made an arrangement to bring it to a workshop.

So I left and went to the office and did three articles and found out that I forgot to take photos of softball (it was raining, I didn't wanna spoil my camera and my mind was set to only take the prize presentation.. which didn't occur as the grand final is postponed to a later date).

So I did my articles and finally when it's done I went off home, thinking I need a shower and sleep. A cat crossed the road and I had to brake real hard that my car skidded to a 90 degree angle on the road, (what's with cats with death wish? they tend to do that. cross the road but crossed back when they see a car coming and make the driver panicked.. cats are a bit dumb sometimes).. luckily there were no cars coming from the other side or I would have been six feet under by now. So I sorta turned the car and head home.. safely.

Til my next ramblings.. Drive safe..

Moolah.. Cash.. Fulus.. Money Money Money...

2011-01-14T23:19:00.000-08:00

Money.. Money.. Money... I remember this song from the eighties and every time I need money, I kinda sing the tune automatically...

The world nowadays evolve around money.. not like it used to be.. It used to be so fun to be a kid not worrying about money.. Financial management is what I need (I know someone will agree fully on this ;p and will say I need to save up.. but don't.. I'm warning you!).

But just when I was going to save up more, there comes the financial tide where needs and wants come to the attention. My beloved D300's shutter died in the middle of a corporate event coverage.. few days later I bought a D300s and sent the D300 for a new shutter leaf installation. Before that I was supposed to buy a fast zoom lens because my 80-200mm f/2.8 AF-S (very few have this lens.. especially in Brunei) lens is broken and repairing it is almost the price of a new lens.. so I'm gonna buy a 70-200mm f/2.8 AF-S VR. It's for my job, I'm a sports photo journalist and without a fast zoom lens, I can only take group photos. That's not a thrilling job that I signed up for. And especially if I need to take photos of royalties.. His Majesty, The Crown Prince, The Grand Vizier, The Princesses, etc.. So that's a couple of thousands... and my laptop (the other one which I use to do photo post processing and all) is broken and my hard disks are full.. so I need a new hard disk and the laptop.. more money to spend and just this morning the D300 arrived (it's repaired to a new condition) and I need to pick it up soon... all these at the same time.. I'm gonna have to think of a way to get all these and it's a few more weeks to payday and more months to go for bonus.

I just wished I hit the lottery jackpot so that I can pay off my loans, and did I mention I have to clear my credit cards.. no more using them.. I'm gonna cut everything... If I can clear off everything and get my gears. I'll be a happy man and I can sleep soundly every night.

One lesson, don't use the credit card unless it's an emergency and pay it punctually coz the late charges kills you.. hahah.. (no, it's not a laughing matter.. then why am I laughing?), save up for a rainy day.. (well it's raining everyday now and I haven't been able to save up yet)..

This year, I'll get through it slowly and I hope once I get my financial right (my way.. someone try to say it's wrong and I'll stop saving completely.. I'm a bit rebellious and I'm not proud of it but I wanna do things MY WAY!!)

Well, just another random rambling of my life.. If only these things get broken one at a time. it'll be easy to pay.. but all at once is a knife in the throat..

Until next time.. owh yea.. I need to start uploading photos again.. and pay my flickr account and I think the website's due for payment.. LOL..

I think I might go back to do some event or even wedding photography... but the market nowadays.. some people look for cheap and quantity rather than quality of the photos... Well.. back to the drawing board.. gonna help out with the family business soon.. need the extra cash.. (means no Harley Davidson or a new car but I'm gonna clear off all my debts).

Til my next ramblings... For now, I'm gonna concentrate more on my career.. my photography.. MY LIFE... ;)

So long 2010.. Hello 2011..

2011-01-03T00:32:00.000-08:00

It's been soooo looong since I last blogged.. been really busy with my occupation.. I really love my job.. it made me busy.. but the adrenalin rush and also doing things that I love and get paid for it.. that's a dream job for everyone..

So it's the 3rd day of 2011.. it's a good refreshing year.. last year was good.. this year, will be better...

Owh yea.. before Christmas time, the family went off on a road trip to Kota Kinabalu Sabah.. we had a fun time there, just having a vacation (which didn't stop Mom from doing her shopping) and I drove to Lok Kawi Wildlife Centre where I was brought when I was sent working earlier in October - November (that's another story, probably next time) and brought the 2 gremlins.. Aiman and Baby Ariana.. we went on an elephant ride, watched lotsa animals, elephants, tigers, leopard, snakes, crocodiles, bears, ostrich, gibbons, Orang Utan, Proboscis Monkeys and lots more.. only Rhinoceros were missing (I think it died or no longer there) and watched a show there.. very good I recommend going there.

We had seafood, Fish & Co, Starbucks (when will Brunei have one?) Mom's personal favorite Dott's Egg Tarts (which we had everyday and took home 15 boxes to Brunei). It was fun to not work for a few days just hanging out with the family. We're planning to go back there again.. when? not really sure.. coz planning to go either Bangkok, Shenzen, Guang Zhou and Jakarta with the family.. and yeah.. Umrah to Mekah for the parents..

Well, so much for ramblings.. I'm a person with few words.. I will try to update more photos soon.. but I have put up a few photos in the main website -> http://www.GoDsGiFT730.com I uploaded photos that were published last year...

Til the next time I feel like blogging.. or have the time to do so.. again.. it's still not too late to wish everyone a very Happy new Year 2011. :)

p.s.- and for a treat.. here's a photo I took on New Year's Eve.. unedited.. straight from the camera.. a photo published Front Page on the first day of 2011..

Eid' Mubarak 1431H

2010-09-09T12:06:00.000-07:00

Didn't realized I haven't been blogging for a loooooong long time...

A lot have happened for the past months... I quit from my former job ad joined a job in the media/publishing industry.. been really busy.. then there was the Miri Merdeka Fest, National Sports Festival (PSK), MB Invitational Cup, and I just flown back from Bangkok Thailand to attend a rare seminar for us Asians... I thank all the parties involved making it possible for us to participate.

Ramadhan is over when the crescent moon was sighted in the evening and I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely ask for forgiveness if I have ever done or said anything wrong.. or upsetting... anyone... my family, friends, team mates, colleagues, association members, Brunei Darussalam Baseball and Baseball Association (BASBA), Brunei Karate-do Federation (BRUKAF), Brunei Cue Sports Association (BCSA), my fellow umpires and to the rest of the muslims out there...

On behalf of the 730 family... we would like to say from the bottom of our hearts...

Happy Eid' Mubarak 1431H.

What a week...

2010-04-22T07:56:00.000-07:00

After my last blog.. I've been utterly busy.. as I said, busy with life, work, sports and this time, not really much of photography..

I'm one of the sports committee as the softball convener for our company which speaks directly to the sports secretariat. I'm to organize a softball team for our company to participate the upcoming National Sports Carnival. I've done that successfully, except to get the whole team coming to training all at once. Which is rather difficult as most of the players works shift hours and some flies. I have to make sure all is well before handing the post as Manager and Convener to my cousin, who is also an employee.

In the previous post I mentioned probably a change in profession which is correct. I'm to leave the company I'm working for currently in a few weeks. But I'm still going to play under them for the PSK as a member of their club.

In all these busyness of team, training, trials and work as well... somehow affect my health as this week, when I went to work on Monday, my throat was really sore, had a runny nose and I was having bad headaches the past week. Then the next day, I could barely wake up. I had to go to the clinic and meet the doctor. I was diagnosed, that my throat is still infected and my left tonsil is swollen. So swollen that I was surprised that the doctor gave me 5 days of medical leave. He told me, no cough syrups. Just pain killers, medicines I couldn't pronounce and antibiotics. If the swelling wouldn't go away, I'm gonna have to go for surgery and have them removed. ERK!!!... I drank tepid hot drinks, lozenges and avoided cold drinks and anything that make my tonsils swell but took calamansi, lemon, lime and other sour stuffs to shrink my swollen tonsils. It worked and I don't have to undergo surgery. PHEW!!... What a relief.

5 days leave should've been fun if you're not sick. I'd be riding my motorcycle around and meeting my gf and do a lot of fun stuffs. Instead of staying home the whole week. Which reminds me, need to take my medication now. ;)

So I will start work again next week and I do hope I'm able to play in the Solidarity match this Sunday. *hoping I can start softball training, we'replaying in the semi-finals this Sunday.... that's 3 more days* That is another story, if I do take photos, they will be uploaded to my softball gallery, but if I'm too busy playing, I'll just snap a few, get the photos of winners and scores, then you can read it the next day in the local newspaper.

Hope I'll start photoblogging again soon. Time to sleep. I hope I'm a bit well tomorrow as I need to print my competition photos which deadline is on Saturday. Will get it printed and sent. Wish me luck. ;)

Clearing cobwebs... cough... ;p

2010-03-06T23:46:00.000-08:00

FUH!!... My blog is full of cobwebs, I just realized that I haven't blogged since last Eid'. Been really busy with life, work, business, family events, wedding events, hired events, corporate events, sports events, national events and lots more... and I just recently came back from a trip to Jakarta... Yes, haven't flew off for a while, matter of fact didn't fly off at all last year.

So I was covering an international sports event and a wedding last February, covering a corporate event just before I flew off to Jakarta to play softball in the 2nd Giants Cup 2010 and covering it as well. I'll try to post the photos in the future as I'm having problem uploading the photos to my multiply softball album and to flickr album as well. I do hope I can get them uploaded before next year, as I have lots more events to cover.

And when I returned from Jakarta, I was sick, doctor told me that my throat is infected, probably because of the HOT weather. I was given 2 days medical leave for me to rest and not infect others... lol... I start work Monday which is tomorrow and I know, loads of work will be waiting for me. I do look forward to it though. I might finish them all in record time, like I always do, 2 weeks. ;)

Well, I do hope everything turns out well. We'll have the National Sports Carnival coming up soon, and I'm surely gonna play and cover it as well. And probably a change in profession. ;)

I'm gonna go back to processing the wedding photos, uploading the Jakarta softball photos and the National Day photos. And I need to check, process and upload the photoshoot with Syazlie as well. That is a lot!!..

Eid Mubarak 1430H/2009M

2009-09-21T13:05:00.000-07:00

I haven't been blogging since July.. been really busy with work, photography events and life. And uploading photos to flickr is really killing me. An album of 10 photos, each less than 300kb took me 2-3 days and a maximum of a week to upload. So I'm gonna skip July, August and September *will probably blog them in future if I have the time*.

A month of ramadhan has passed and now it's Syawal... a festive season for all muslims... with that I would like to wish all muslims out there a Happy Eid.

Minal Aidin Walfaidzin Walmaqbulin WaKullu'amin

Wa Antum Bi Khaer Wa Uhanikum Bi Aidul Fitri

Taqabbalahu Minna Wa Minkum

Amin Ya Robb'al Al Amin

Sebulan Ramadhan telah berlalu, semoga puasa dan ibadah kita yang lain diterima oleh Allah S.W.T. Semoga kita bertemu lagi dengan Ramadhan yang akan datang. Amin...

Disini Peramba/Kaola/Saya menyusun sepuluh jari ingin meminta maaf sekiranya ada tersilap dan salah, terkasar bahasa secara sengaja atau tidak sengaja, secara tutur, lisan atau melalui blog. Harap halalkan jika ada termakan dan terminum, maafkan yang zahir maupun yang batin.

Peramba/Kaola/Saya ingin mengucapkan Selamat Hari Raya Aidilfitri, Minal Aidin Walfaidzin kepada seluruh umat Islam, Maaf Zahir Batin. Ikhlas daripada:

Pengiran Haji Hassan Pengiran Anak Hashim

Dayang Hajjah Asinash Haji Ahmad

Dayangku Rohhayati Pengiran Haji Hassan

Awangku Khairil Sapyri Pengiran Haji Hassan

Titi's Birthday - 12/07/09

2009-07-19T12:11:00.000-07:00

After the photoshoot at Empire Hotel, I returned home and we had a small family gathering for the thanksiving doa for Titi's birthday. 12/07/09

More photos here.

The next day, we went to RMS Portview Fratini's for Pizza, again to celebrate Titi's birthday. 13/07/09

More photos here.

Then after I went out for the Pre-Worldwide Photowalk on the 15/07/09, the family went to Picollo Fratini's to celebrate Titi's birthday again.

More photos here.

The next day, again we celebrated Titi's birthday... this time at Excapade Sushi in Kiulap.

More photos here.

Hepburn Theme - 12/07/09

2009-07-18T12:49:00.001-07:00

Went to Empire with the gf, the owner of S-Touch to do make-up do of a Audrey Hepburn theme. She did the make-ups while I shoot as she starts until the finishing touch-ups. And I say, she did a marvelous job on the model. I could barely recognize her. She looked more mature and prettier. No wonder she's booked even for a wedding in 2010 and 2011.

Since it was a Sunday and we skipped breakfast, we were really hungry by lunchtime. So we went to the nearest fast food available to eat.

Yummy!

Then we went back to Empire Hotel and Country Club to meet the model and the other photographers and did the photoshoot together. They were about to wrap up and was taking a break. But I managed to shoot a few shots.

lovely make-up do

Syazlie, the multi talented lady responsible for the fabulous make-up on the model.

The team behind the photo-shoot. The model, make-up artist and photographers

More photos here.

DIRGAHAYU KEBAWAH DULI TUAN PATIK - 15/07/09

2009-07-14T10:10:00.000-07:00

Photos taken during His Majesty's birthday celebration 2008.

Me and my family sincerely wishes a Happy 63rd Birthday to our beloved monarch, ruler of our people, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah Sultan And Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam.

May His Majesty rules with the blessings of ALLAH.

LONG LIVE HIS MAJESTY.

========================================

Dengan ini patik dan keluarga ingin mengucapkan sembah kesyukuran dan setinggi -tinggi tahniah sempena menyambut hari keputeraan kepada Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Dan Yang DiPertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam yang ke 63 tahun.

Sama-samalah kita mendoakan semoga ALLAH melanjutkan usia Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah Sultan Dan Yang Di-Pertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam.

Dirgahayu Baginda Sultan, Selamat Puja Usia dan semoga Baginda kekal qarar memerintah Negara Brunei Darussalam.

DAULAT KEBAWAH DULI TUAN PATIK.

Dari patik serta keluarga:

Pengiran Haji Hassan Bin Pengiran Anak Hashim
Dayang Hajjah Asinash Binte Haji Ahmad
Dayangku Rohhayati Binte Pengiran Haji Hassan
Awangku Khairil Sapyri Bin Pengiran Haji Hassan

Fire at Madewa - 10/07/09

2009-07-14T09:26:00.000-07:00

In my previous post, I had to cut short my light trail outing with the other BFF Crews as we saw very thick smoke nearby and saw police cars and fire engines pass and heard sirens. We know there's fire and that is news stuff.

Me and Spacemonkey went to the scene, Spacey wanted to take silhouettes and I wanted to take good photos and a very good chance to practice photojournalism.

Fire fighters trying their best to control and if possible to put the fire out. We stayed behind them as we snapped photos of the incident. It was blazing hot. We were around 80-100 meters away but we can feel the heat and I was sweating bullets.

The neighbors coming out of their houses to watch the incident.

We left after maybe around half an hour... it was too hot. ;p

The onlookers.. People actually stopped their cars at the side of the road to watch a burnig building.

The onlookers at the other side of the road.

The police had to be there to control the crowd.... and traffic. Too many cars slowed down to watch the fire and not looking front. ;p

More photos here.

This photo of mine was used for the paper the next day... by Media Permata. Front page!! Click here to read about it. ;)

BFF Bunut Passover Light Trail Outing - 10/07/09

2009-07-14T09:15:00.000-07:00

My 2nd outing of July, 2 days after my first one, we, the BFF crews, had another light trail outing this time at Bunut pedestrian passover. But I didn't stay long due to an incident. We saw very thick smoke at Madewa. The story will continue in my next post. ;)

More photos here.

BFF Menglait Passover Light Trail Outing - 08/07/09

2009-07-14T09:02:00.000-07:00

My first outing in July, went outing with BFF to the Menglait pedestrian pass-over to capture beautiful light trails of cars passing by.

After the outing all of us was to meet at Blue Eden but I made a non planned stop at Kiulap round-a-bout and shot this light trail of cars passing by and showing the HM's Birthday celebration arch in the middle of the round-a-bout and also showed the Jame' Asri Mosque.

More photos here.

Updates... of June 2009 ;)

2009-07-14T07:52:00.001-07:00

Okay, updates... for June 2009.. I really need to try to update my blog as soon as I update my flickr. For now, this will make do... so here goes...

06/06/09 - Went to the 2nd Q-Lap Bike Show at Tutong with the gf and snapped some photos. More photos here.

07/06/09 - BFF Outing Competition to Kg. Tamoi. More photos here.

10/06/09 - BFF Strobist Outing/Model/Sharing Session. Photo showing Jimmy Jo explaining about flash using snoot. More photos here.

12/06/09 - Went to Ranoadidas.com's 6th anniversary bash at i-Centre in Anggerek Desa. I was using manual focus the night before and forgot to turn it back on, so some photos were blur until I found out why and turned the auto-focus back on. *Oh my!* More photos here.

12/06/09 - BFF Outing Competition Prize presentation. More photos here.

14/06/09 - BFF Film Outing @ BSB. The gf using Nikon F3 and I used Leica R4s. We go film and manual focus all the way. More photos here.

25/06/09 - The gf joined the Laneige Photogenic Competition @ The Mall... and

I ended up doing more photoshoots of her

at my own make-shift studio.. More photos here.

25/06/09 - Baby Ariana's 1st birthday. More photos here.

27/06/09 - Brought Titi, Wida and Puri to the 4th Comsumer Fair at ICC. More photos here.

28/06/09 - Muris and Lush's wedding, but me and the gf took photos at home. More photos here.

Sending off Puri and Wida back to Jakarta. Both are from Jakarta softball team and Puri being the Indonesian National Squad 1st pitcher played for Pasadena for the 10 day MB Invitational Cup 2009. They will be missed. More photos here. Softball photos are at my softball site.

End of June 2009 updates. ;)

Pakamal and Aiman's Birthday Part 2

2009-06-30T06:36:00.000-07:00

We had a surprise birthday dinner for one of our favourite uncle and manager of both our softball team, Wanderers and Pasadena Softball Club. We reserved the Deals Restaurant at Sheraton Utama Hotel at the capital city and awaited Pakamal. He was really surprised when he saw us there waiting for him.

Sheraton Utama's Chef favorite cake. He recommended it himself...

Btw, that night, the food there was superb!!! I love dining at Sheraton Utama Hotel, either at Deals Restaurant or at Tasek Brasserie... Hats off to the chef...

More photos here.

Pakamal and Aiman's Birthday Part 1

2009-06-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

We celebrated Pakamal and Aiman's birthday at home with just a small gathering with family members. Happy birthday Pakamal and Aiman, may Allah always bless you. Amin.

Pakamal and Aiman cutting their cakes

Baby Ariana always know where the camera is and posed

More photos here.

RTB, BE and TBE's birthday...

2009-06-30T06:05:00.001-07:00

Boss BE told us to come and support as well as be volunteers to appear on RTB TV. So I came and volunteered to be the last... if only no one dares to be interviewed. Fortunately Souljah and Azeez did. So I fill in as background. ;)

apparently, it was also Zul The Brunei Eye's birthday

More photos here.

My gf's shoot at Masjid Pandan...

2009-06-30T05:45:00.000-07:00

I was actually photographing the Masjid Pandan from the lagoon, then soon after I finished shooting, saw my gf sitting and as I always do.. start shooting.

I believe I can fly

Read and understand!!

love this the most!

More photos here.

Sushi-ing again with my sister...

2009-06-30T05:33:00.000-07:00

My sister had a craving for sushi... unfortunately she can't drive as she got no driving license.... so I had to bring her to Misato and of course get to have a feast as well...

Yummy!!

Volcano Roll

not one, not two but three Enoki Batayaki

one of my fav.. Unagi Sushi

these are all of the food....

20 minutes later... lol...

I love sushi.... more photos here.

Syazlie, BK and Softball...

2009-06-30T05:06:00.000-07:00

What happens when me and my gf meets and as she puts on make-up and my camera is in my hand?! I snap - snap... ;)

as she puts on her make-up...

she shows the best burger merchandise...

BK Fish for her and Whopper for me

No honey, you don't do that to my softball

how to throw a knuckle ball *in baseball* ;p

play catch??!!...

More photos here.

Farahiah's Farewell Party at Supplies Section... 15/05/09

2009-06-30T04:51:00.000-07:00

Farahiah, our collegue in Engineering Finance had her last day and the staffs made a farewell party at the Supplies office. Many turned up and wished her good luck with her new career.

Farah receiving her Golden Blade and present from our Senior Vice President of Engineering, Johar Metali

Receiving his present and Golden Blade *maybe I will receive mine as well.. soon perhaps*

Farah with the Supplies Section staffs.

More photos here.

Updates... Bikes, bikes and more bikes....

2009-06-30T04:31:00.000-07:00

Haven't blogged for a while now.. been really busy with other stuffs and photography and softball. Well, lets start with the bikes..

The first Q-Lap Custom Bikes Show at Yayasan, right at the capital. I rode my bike there to show support and shot these photos of the superb bikes. I just love bikes.. especially custom made.

More photos here.

Then.. a good friend fo mine, Bob of Bobz custom bikes asked me to take photos of his bike.... just before he cut off the handle and made a new one.

More photos here.

Louis Pang presents "Shoot Like A Pro!" - 19/04/09

2009-05-01T12:54:00.000-07:00

Went for the "Shoot Like A Pro" Photography workshop at Empire Hotel & Country Club which was presented by a international multi award winner, Louis Pang. This workshop teaches mainly on professional portrait photography. I learned a lot from him. And he was so down to earth, humble, funny and very likeable. It was worth going to. I hope he will do the "From Ordinary to Extraordinary" workshop here in Brunei. I would love to go.

the sifu, Louis Pang

The models that we worked with the entire day...

Aliff

Maria

Dewi

and Shamita

the models

my gf, Syazlie poses for a photo

LP showing the result

LP in action

the group photo at the end. More photos here.

Fire Safety Awareness Training Day 3 - 15/04/09

2009-05-01T12:06:00.000-07:00

3rd day of the Fire Safety Awareness Training. We started off with the morning runs then we played a game called, "Si Buta Dari Gua Hantu". In groups, we were blindfolded and asked to move around feeling with the back of our hands and feet. We were crawling, and had to put aside obstacles, holes and a makeshift tunnel.

a "make believe tunnel" with obstacle

going across a ditch after the tunnel

helping friends... this is important

crossng a ditch and entering a tunnel. More photos here.

Then we went to the classroom and was refreshed on how to evacuate building and rescuing during a fire.

rescuing a victim who can't walk

carrying a fainted victim. More photos here.

In the afternoon, we enter the smoke house. No simulation of fire and smoke but it was pitch dark and hot. It was like being in a sauna *after more than an hour, my shirt was soaked* and it was really dark, I can't even see my hands even when I put it in front of my eyes. So I was shooting blindly. The participants had to find their way out, using the techniques learnt from the blindfold drill in the morning.

the tunnel

happy to be out. More photos here.

Then we proceeded to the Fire evacuation and rescue drill. We were seperated into 2 groups and each floor has their own fire marshalls.

Fire Marshalls making a head count

1st floor Fire Marshall reporting to the Senior Fire Marshall.. 1 person missing

2nd floor reports to Senior Fire Marshall... also 1 person missing

Senior Fire Marshall reporting to Fire & Rescue personnel

2nd floor victim rescued

1st floor victim rescued

Mission accomplished. More photos here.

Then it was the Fire Extinguisher exercise. To know which fire extinguisher to use on which type of fire.

Powder type fire extinguisher to use on fire caused by oil

H2O/Water type fire extinguisher for fire on wood

CO2/Carbon Dioxide can also be used on fire caused by oil
More photos here.

At the end of the day we ended our training and it's time to say goodbye. So we gathered and had our group photo taken. It was tiring but it was really fun. I kinda miss running in the morning. lol...

More group photos here.

So on the 23rd of April, our batch and the 1st batch before us were called to RBRC to receive our fire safety certificate. Everybody gathered with the fire & rescue personnels and talked about our experiences, especially the funny ones... it was fun. We should do it again. ;)

the 1st and 2nd batch with the Fire & Rescue Personnel and senior managements of Royal Brunei Airlines outside RBRC. More photos of the certificate presentation ceremony and group photos here.

Fire Safety Awareness Training Day 2- 14/04/09

2009-05-01T11:23:00.000-07:00

2nd day of the Fire Safety Awareness Training. We did our morning run around the block, then we started out with basic drill of unrolling and rolling of the fire hose. After that we did the Hydrant 1 Drill. In the morning we did the dry run, without any water running.

that hose on the shoulder weighs 17kg and we had to run 90m with it.

rolling the hose

unrolling the hose

giving the command and signal of turning off the water

holding the nozzle. More photos here.

In the afternoon, we had the wet run of Hydrant 1 Drill. This was a bit harder as we did it live. They pumped the water and that made the hose heavier.

giving the command and signal to open for turning on water hydrant while running

getting in position

draining water from the hose

rolling the hose

unrolling the hose *you have to run*

draining water out of the hose *running as well*

I like this part... playing with water.. I meant spraying water

if you make a mistake *especially command* yu do push-ups on the spot
luckily.. I never did any mistakes, so I never did any push-ups ;)

AdamBJ giving the command and signal of turning on the water

Andi checking the coupling

releasing the coupling joints

Ucingitam spraying water. More photos here.

After our wet run of the Hydrant 1 Drill, we were briefed on the theory of fire evacuation techniques and as well as saving or removing victims to a safer location.

These are examples of ways to remove victims to a safer location. More photos here.

The 3 BFF members during the training. More photos here.

Fire Safety Awareness Training Day 1 - 13/04/09

2009-05-01T10:51:00.000-07:00

We were sent for a Fire Safety Awareness Training by the company at Old Airport Fire & Rescue Department. We were there to learn about fire safety, how to prevent fire, to stop fire and a basic knowledge of being a fire warden as well as a firefighter. The first day was the theory part where we stayed in class and learn about fire extinguishers, fire drills, classes of fires, etc...

explaining how to pick up and carry the fire hose

this is the correct way to hold the nozzle

teamwork is important for handling the nozzle

the correct way to pass the coupling

the correct way to roll the hose

the correct way to flush water out of the hose

participants trying out

This is only the 1st day, the theory part. The best part comes after that. More photos here.

Football Charity Match - AM Gunners FC vs Muara Ville FC - 04/04/09

2009-05-01T05:01:00.001-07:00

AM Gunners FC had another charity football match against Muara Ville FC at the National Stadium.

AM Gunners FC

Muara Ville FC

HRH Prince Abdul Mateen in action

HRH Prince Abdul Mateen celebrating after he scored with a flying header.
More photos here.

Update..... Been a long hiatus...

2009-04-30T21:38:00.000-07:00

Been a while I blogged.. well, here as usual are updates of what I did... be warned... it'a a long post... heheh....

Went to shoot sunset at Tungku Beach. It was awesome... I want to go sunsetting again next week. Anybody wanna come and join? More photos here.

I had a photoshoot... this time with male models. So I invited my cousins to model for me.

Wanchai

Fendy

more photos here.

The BFF crew had an outing to a very scary place. To capture light trails of airplanes taking off. We however only managed to get 2 shots of light trail. Brunei airport is not as busy as Changi I guess, so air traffic was at the minimum.

aircraft light trail

While waiting for aircrafts landing or taking off, I managed to get a few shots of lightning, this is one of them. I know it's just a speck but hey... it was great as a first time. If only the clouds were not in the way. More photos here.

Went for a road trip with Zul The Brunei Eye down to Kuala Belait. And we managed to do some bird shots from the car.... lol... we were vewy vewy quiet... and shot *no we didn't kill it, just froze it's soul and made it motionless and turned it into a photograph* 2 different birds having 2 different frogs.

*No birds were harmed during this photo shoot except for those frogs they're trying to eat*
More Photos here.

Went to Marilyn Cake House with Zul TBE and my girlfriend Syazlie to meet Diney and Miss Lulu. We had lunch there.

Miss Lulu and Syazlie

The Brunei Eye coloring.

Dineyphoto

and they surprised me with a birthday cake *it was one day advanced*
Thank you honey and to the BFF crews, Zul TBE, Diney and Miss Lulu. More photos here.

Shooting horses *no we didn't kill any* at the BSRC Riding Club. More photos here.

Then me, Syazlie and Zul The Brunei Eye went to OGDC as there were the RTB carnival.. *but we didn't see much* so we went in and played.... it was fun!

the tornado *More photos here.*

Went to Billionth Barrel to do a photoshoot with Syazlie using one flash strobing technique.

More photos here.

also did a sunset shoot. More photos here.

Went to shoot sunset on my birthday at Jerudong Beach. It was awesome.
More photos here.

I was sent on a 2 day course as one of the Emergency Airlines Respond Team.

More photos here.

Was invited to my uncles birthday, Pg. Hj. Othman Pg. Anak Hashim at the Airport Restaurant.

More photos here.

Dad's Birthday - 18/03/09

2009-03-19T07:31:00.000-07:00

Had a few of the family members come over, just a little get together and a thanksgiving prayer for dad's birthday.

the birthday cake

the best in the menu, a whole lamb leg

I LOVE YOU DAD!

Mom's Birthday - 07/02/09

2009-03-19T04:48:00.001-07:00

Ermmm kinda belated but due to insufficient diskspace.. :'( this post is way behind... but still, here it is.. We surprised Mom on her birthday, the same date my uncle had their wedding. While Mom was busy, we sneaked up on her and brought out the birthday cake and everyone sang. She was shocked and I could see tears... tears of happiness.. welled up in her eyes... because we, the family remembered in the midst of the busy wedding schedule. *Of course I remember my mom's birthday!*

Mom surprised

the birthday cake

My family *with an addition of Ariana "Cookie Monster" Putri*

I LOVE YOU MOM!

THE RIVALS MATCH!! - 14/03/09

2009-03-15T21:47:00.000-07:00

Watched the LIVE telecast match of the Rivals Match: Manchester United (home) against Liverpool at my house last Saturday night and due to demand from the uncles and cousins, I connected ESPN to the 42" LCD TV in the TV room.

Man U's 1st (penalty kick) goal *sound of cricket* it was quiet as we're all Liverpool fans, except for 2 of my uncles.

Liverpool's 1st goal

Liverpool's 2nd goal

This was when Vidic of Man U was given a red card.

Liverpool's 3rd goal

1 minute to go and Liverpool scored their 4th and final goal...

The cousins and uncles cheering for Liverpool watching the replay of the 4th goal

It was fun... for us. As I couldn't find the 2 uncles (Man U fans) after that. LOL.... ;p

And I have a live update in facebook (my status) for my friend (who was working that night) and my cousins (who couldn't watch due to no reception at their house). They should've come over and watched with us. 1-4 was the score. Next match, Liverpool vs Chelsea.

You'll Never Walk Alone

When you walk through a storm hold your head up high
And don't be afraid of the dark.
At the end of a storm is a golden sky
And the sweet silver song of a lark.
Walk on through the wind,
Walk on through the rain,
Tho' your dreams be tossed and blown.
Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone,
You'll never, ever walk alone.

Walk on, walk on with hope in your heart
And you'll never walk alone,
You'll never, ever walk alone.

BFF 2nd Anniversary

2009-03-12T04:21:00.000-07:00

us in good behaviour

as usual... freestyle... this is the real us... mischievious lots

Group photo by airbiscuit

Happy 2nd Anniversary to Brunei Forever Forum the Sharp Shooters Heaven also known as BFF. An online photography forum which I'm proud to be part of. It's actually an unofficial, virtual, non-profitable organisation where photographers of all ages join, learn, do outings and have fun... the first in Brunei... really and we have the biggest member *I think* in the nation.

Although we celebrated earlier on the 8th of March, last Sunday but the forum was born 2 years ago today. On the 12th of March 2007. I'm glad I joined in 2 years ago and made lots of friends, learnt a lot on photography as well as photo editing technique.

On behalf of BFF, I would like to say a big thank you to Sugar & Spice for sponsoring the venue and food for all of us. The service was great, everything I asked for was there on the dot. The place was good, very warm environment for the whole family especially us cheerful lots and the food was simply delicious. I especially love the Chicken Shawarma and Humus as well as the Beef Kofta. I would surely come back for more. So do come to Sugar & Spice for a taste of their wonderful exotic arabic food. Especially for family dining.

If only Chef Ridhwan was there, but he was not able to be present as he was away for the launching of Aladdin *a Sugar & Spice franchise* in Kota Kinabalu, *WOW!* expanding the business abroad.

the delicious buffet spread

delicious Beef Kofta *one of my favourite*

Mountable *I ate vegetables that day*

Mousaka *you gotta try the exotic taste*

All these exotic arabic food was fully sponsored by Sugar & Spice Arabic Food Restaurant

Cupcakes sponsored by my lovely girlfriend Syazlie, which she ordered from cupcakeheaven KB.

Sugar & Spices' most delicious Chicken Shawarma *I think I had 4 servings*

The founder, admins and mods of BFF cutting the anniversary cake sponsored by Blue Eden Restaurant.

Syazlie, handing gifts as one of the committee.

Prize giving for one of the games.

More photos here

Silver Jubilee Brunei National Day 2009

2009-03-12T03:53:00.000-07:00

More photos:

UPDATES!!! January to March 2009

2009-03-12T02:52:00.001-07:00

I covered the European Golf Tour, here it's Aberdeen Brunei Senior Masters 2009 - more photos here and here

Charity Football - more photos here

National Day Giant Flag Raising Ceremony - more photos here

Wanderers, Pasadena and Family 730 picnic at Muara - more photos here

Went to Jakarta again - more photos here

The 3rd Consumer Fair at ICC - more photos here

Another family gathering before school re-opens 03/01/09 - more photos here

Family gathering during New Year's Eve - more photos here

Phew, it's been a while I last blogged. I'll just put everything here. ;)

Happy New Year 2009

2009-01-08T04:42:00.000-08:00

Starting 2009, I will start using this site to blog again and I'll only post photos at my site.

I will start with New Year's eve. Was at uncle's house for a BBQ. Almost all of us gathered for the BBQ. It was a steamboat and BBQ cookout. It was awesome...

Click on photo to go to album

Then went to Batu Marang for the 1st sunrise of 2009 with BFF members. Went there at 5am and it was still really dark. Thanks to BruneiEye for the directions. This is the HDR version and I was a bit disappointed as it was a sunless sunrise. :(

Click on photo to go to album

After our sunrise outing, we went to eat at Jing Chew. Love the "Roti Kuning Cucur" their own version of French Toast and "Roti Kuning Kawin".

Click on photo to go to album

I went to Empire to shoot the 1st sunset of 2009. This is the HDR version of it. I was disappointed for a 2nd time as yet again it was a sunless sunset.

So I ended up shooting the beach, the hotel, doing bracket shots for HDR and did light painting.

Click on photo to go to album

After Empire I went back to my uncle's house for another BBQ. My other uncle brought Peytong *spelling* balls and started teaching how to play to my young cousins, and ended up all of us learning how to play. Reminded me of playing marbles when I was a kid.

Click on photo to go to album

I wil post again soon. Cheers! ;)

www.GoDsGiFT730.com

2008-09-06T14:23:00.000-07:00

Hello world, I have moved on and made my own site. This is (probably) my last of my post here. I can be found at www.GoDsGiFT730.com.

So people, just click on the link to go to my new site. See you there.

- GoD's GiFT!

BSB GP - 03/08/08

2008-08-06T06:10:00.000-07:00

BSB Go Kart Grand Prix 2008 ;p

The roads of Bandar Seri Begawan turned into a go-kart circuit in conjunction with His Majesty The Sultan's 62nd birthday.

not enough pan... should've used slower shutter speed

still not enough panning :(

Tony kart

*waves* Hi!... ;p

More photos here.

Lantern Procession - 26/07/08

2008-08-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

The annual Lantern Procession in conjunction with His Majesty's 62nd Birthday Celebration at the capital in Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien.

Our beloved monarch, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

hand-held using UWA Sigma 10-20mm on Nikon D40X

we started here, walk from Lisa's apartment

the centre of Brunei Darussalam

the Dragonlady

Ucingitam in action

at BK
(no, not Burger King..... Babu's Kitchen)

more BFF photogs showed up

Green ranger??!!

Shu and Snap of Wanderers

sharpshooter sighted with a big lens...

RBA contingent

RBA's float

the winner

tug of war final

RBA SVP Kamal Ariffin receiving the trophy for winning 5th place in the float competition

the light show

More photos here and here.

His Majesty Meet and Greet @ BSB - 20/07/08

2008-08-06T06:02:00.000-07:00

The next day was the annual His Majesty meet and greet at Taman Sir Omar Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

grand finale

HRH The Crown Prince

pre-wed photos?! ;p

HM at RBA's booth

signing the guest book

End of the day I was exhausted and also upset as my new camcorder (which I bought just 4 days before) was gone. It was stolen in the crowd. In the new camcorder was videos of the performance at BSB, KB and also the banquet at the Royal Palace on His Majesty's birthday.

More photos here and here.

His Majesty Meet and Greet @ Kuala Belait - 19/07/08

2008-08-06T05:15:00.000-07:00

Was busy sorting out competition photos and others... that I haven't update yet. So here are my updates.

Was on the way to KB when suddenly I heard a *bang*. I pulled over to the side of the road and inspected my tyres. Found out one of the tyres burst. Phew! Lucky nothing else happened. I did a quick change and went off.

A closer look

His Majesty went down to Kuala Belait for the annual meet and greet in conjunction with His Majesty's 62nd birthday celebration.

Guess who?!

It was hot but fun and worthwhile. I love celebrations. More photos here and here.

His Majesty's 62nd Birthday - 15/07/08

2008-07-16T06:37:00.000-07:00

Happy 62nd Royal Birthday to our beloved Ruler and King, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Muizzaddin Waddaulah Ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam on the 15th of July 2008 corresponding to 12 Rejab 1429 Hijrah. Dirgahayu Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik. - GoD's GiFT!

Selamat Hari Puja Usia yang ke 62, dengan setinggi tinggi tahniah di tujukan ke hadapan majlis Kebawah Duli Yang Maha Mulia Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan dan Yang Dipertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam, Semoga Kekal Qarar diatas tahta Kerajaan Negara Brunei Darussalam dan selalu berada dalam perlindungan Allah S.W.T "DAULAT KEBAWAH DULI TUAN PATIK"

Ikhlas daripada:

Pg. Hj. Hassan Pg. Anak Hashim

Dyg Hjh. Asinash Hj. Ahmad

Dk. Rohhayati Pg. Hj. Hassan

Ak. Khairil Sapyri Pg. Hj. Hassan

More photos here and here.

New 730 family member - 26/06/08

2008-06-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

The Anggerek 730 family has a new member, born on the 25th of June, 2008. 4.15pm and weighs 3.56kg. A very healthy baby girl. Named Ariana Jamil.

Congrats Ponchoh and C Jee for the newborn. She's so cute. Now Aiman has a little sister. ;)

Laser 1 Championship - 08/06/08

2008-06-11T10:26:00.000-07:00

Was invited to shoot the Laser 1 race at Brunei Yacth Club at Serasa last Sunday, had to get on a small boat and went out to sea to shoot the final leg. It was fun and all, but it was hot! Luckily I didn't forget my sunblock. ;)

The race

The Champion, Yannick Marcillat

I was told, he's one of the world's best sailor, having competed in international levels and ranked third in the World Laser Championships (if I heard it right) and he's here in Brunei.
He's from France and works for Total. This was his last race in Brunei, he's going back to France.

The judges

Navy in action

They have speed limits!

What a relaxed way to go back to shore

Emma Foulke, the youngest participant

Tug-of-war?!

Really cheerful lass

Maimah (one of our guides) and hubby

Christopher James Goodwin presenting a souveniour to the new Commodore of Royal Brunei Navy, Colonel Halim

And Chris presenting the souveniour to Mark Bean of Total (Main sponsor)

Emma was given an award for being the youngest, the Below 18 Award

The Royal Brunei Navy group shot with Guest of Honours

The sailors group shot

Thanks for the invite, especially to Kamariah and for the tour.

Article in Borneo Bulletin and more photos in Gallery.

KUPU Sports Day - 20/04/08

2008-05-15T02:40:00.000-07:00

I was really tired and it was a hot day after the BSB 50mm Challenge, was on my way home when I saw what looks like a sports event at Balapan Field. So I went down and took some shots. Found out it was the 1st KUPU (Kolej Universiti Perguruan Ugama) Sports Day. And there was no photographer around. So I offered myself to take photos of the event.

look familiar... he's Ibu Jee's brother.

Team Captain with the Overall House Champion Trophy

Receiving the Challenge Trophy

With the Challenge Trophy

House Champions,

50mm Challenge - 20-04-08

2008-05-14T21:55:00.000-07:00

Joined the other BFF members for the 50mm Challenge at BSB. Here are the photos that I wanted to submit but in the evening, my aunt got submitted to RIPAS and we had to spend the next 4 days at RIPAS ICU, so I didn't submit any. Here are the photos and more on my flickr.

I was still using my D40X at that time and had to do manual focusing using the 50mm.

More photos here.

Sunset @ Panaga - 19/04/08

2008-05-08T06:44:00.001-07:00

Went to KB and asked Syazlie to model for me at Panaga Beach. Too bad the waves wasn't how I wanted it. So I shoot sunset instead.

The model was waiting for me

Love the sunset at Panaga

silhouttes

BLNG Bowling Tournament 19/04/08

2008-05-05T10:35:00.000-07:00

AAAAAAAAAAAAaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaarrrggghhh!!!.......... My harddisk corrupted! I'm lucky I put the photos I wanted to post in my laptop. Took this photos when Nullie asked me to come to take photos of the BLNG Bowling Tournament at Utama Bowling. Wanted to stay for the moonlight disco bowling but I had other engagements to attend.

paparazzi

posing

that's my cuz

spare

tsk... tsk...

Woohoo!...

it's going

spare

YES!

taking a fall

24mm f/2.8 - 18/04/08

2008-04-28T10:40:00.001-07:00

Went to BE to try out the Nikkor 24mm f/2.8 and here are the photos.

Pro Camera @ BE - 17/04/08

2008-04-28T10:16:00.001-07:00

Went to BE to hang out for a while and eat (love the Tom Yam Fried Noodle), that's when I took the beast and clicked.... 11fps... SWEET!

the beast

loving it

ISO 6400

no... that's a D300

more free samples.. ;p thanx zali... ;)

watching a video on how lenses were made

BE - 16/04/08

2008-04-26T07:48:00.000-07:00

Went to BE to try the new dish Zali wanted us to sample.

cute ain't he? guess whose son...

the sample...

no... not pizza... prawn fritters

that's a big cup

Davis Cup - 13/04/08

2008-04-26T06:41:00.000-07:00

After JC, me Bruneian and BruneiEye went to the Harley Davidson Showroom, didn't take any photos after I rode the sample bike, a Harley Davidson Sportster.... I was on *Cloud 9* thinking of buying one... ;p After that, we went to Tennis Centre at the National Stadium Complex to shoot the Davis Cup, Oceana Group 4 Tournament.

Photos below were shot by my friend and tutor, Mr. Bruneian. This series is how he showed me the ways of framing and composition.

More photos here.

JC - 13/04/08

2008-04-25T11:13:00.000-07:00

After a while not going (due to Softball match), went back to JC and brought a few "antiques" for the guys to see.

the dragon lady

love her shirt

Alwin's Surprise Birthday - 13/04/08

2008-04-15T09:27:00.001-07:00

Went to Ussof Cafe after Daniel's 'Khatam Al-Quran'. Had a drink and when the cake came out, Alwin was so surprised, he was speechless. Kinda like me last month.

Daniel's Khatam Al-Quran' - 12/04/08

2008-04-15T09:07:00.000-07:00

Went to Babu Umi's house for Daniel's 'Khatam Al-Quran' and took these photos.

did a few strobing as well ;p

Roundabout Kiulap - 11/04/08

2008-04-15T07:50:00.000-07:00

We obviously got nothing to do that night. For me, it was my rest night, til I met this 2 crazy photog friends of mine.

We were literally in the middle of the Kiulap roundabout, trying to take photo of light from cars pasing by with slow shutter. These are the results. I need to learn more on slow shutter and I really need a good tripod.

a little bit over exposed

shutter speed not slow enough

Wanderers Cup Meeting 03 - 10/04/08

2008-04-15T06:48:00.000-07:00

Had a third committee meeting for the 2nd Wanderers Challenge Trophy Softball Carnival. Made the registration form and started to circulate it since Saturday.

Tournament draw will be held at Dewan Kuliah, National Stadium on the 23rd of May, 2008 at 8.15pm. Team managers and team captain are to come for the draw and bring the rules and regulation.

RBA National Day Appreciation Nite - 14/04/08

2008-04-14T10:12:00.000-07:00

The RBA staffs and senior managements that participated in the 24th National Day celebration were invited to the RBA National Day Appreciation Nite at the Poolside Terrace, Royal Brunei Recreation Club earlier tonight.

Here are most of the photos. I'll try to upload the others in the gallery.... soon. ;)

Poolside Terrace

The CEO greeting staffs

The CEO with the seniior managements of RBA

Field performance instructors

the march past instructors from the army

A short and simple speech by the CEO

Lovely flames

Food was great, I think I had four servings lamb. ;p

Mr. Ray Sayer presented the souveniour packs to the senior managements and staffs that participated in the National Day celebration.

Senior managements receiving their souveniour and paticipating certs

the march past instructors receiving their air tickets

the field performance instructors receiving their air tickets

RBA's CEO, Mr. Ray Sayer

there were singing

laughter all around

and dancing

and Limbo

staffs also took this opportunity to take photos with the CEO

The CEO with the instructors

It was GRRREAT! Really fun and awesome night. And the CEO was fun. Two thumbs up to the organisers. ;)

I'll upload the rest in here. (Not yet, will upload soon, I'll try to find the time. Keep on checking) ;p

Kingston Blunettes Champions of S² Netball Tournament - 06/04/08

2008-04-12T13:42:00.001-07:00

Went to a netball tournament last week Sunday, did a favor for a friend who organized the tournament. Besides, I need practice using the 80-200mm. SWEET! And I ended up having my left arm aching, using the 1.5kg 80-200mm lens without a monopod or tripod for 4 hours.

Star Gazers

some of them are my ex-Karate students.

Phoenix

the organizer

with the challenge trophy

the winner

Kingston Blunettes

Read more here.

More photos here. (I will upload it to the gallery soon. Need to filter) So keep on checking. ;)

2008-04-12T13:29:00.000-07:00

had a second meeting

the Executive Committee

the last 3 photos were taken by Nullie. Soon to be a photog. ;p

PoMan's Birthday - 01/04/08

2008-04-12T13:00:00.001-07:00

No, not April Fool's Day, it was my uncle's birthday. Went to Goldiana Cafe at Orchid Garden Hotel to have dinner.

and I still can't access the internet there

my dessert plate

the nieces

Bu Milah

Poman and Ayul

the birthday boy

group photo

Dad with Poman

the nieces

KB - 31/03/08

2008-04-12T12:55:00.001-07:00

Beatles?! ;p

Wanderers Carnival Meetin 01 / SURPRISED! - 23/03/08

2008-04-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

Went to the first "2nd Wanderers Challenge Trophy Carnival" committee meeting at Anggerek Puteh.

didn't eat much... I was FULL!

And I was surprised with a birthday cake. Thanks Pakamal. ;)

BFF Anniversary (Again!) - 23/03/08

2008-04-12T11:54:00.000-07:00

Again with the BFF Anniversary. Went to the gathering after my lunch birthday and had real fun. It was the best! There was laughter everywhere. It was jokes and cameras around the clock.

The attendance

The anniversary cake

Mr Bruneian himself, the founder of BFF

The games

winner of the face painting

guess the price of everything on the table

that's a lot of cameras!

in this table, is already $30K

the winner of face painting

winner of guess the price

winner of Best Dressed ;)

Sweet!... ;)

Birthday @ Charcoal & Grill - 23/03/08

2008-04-12T00:02:00.000-07:00

Had lunch on my birthday at Charcoal & Grill with my beloved parents, sis, Syazlie, Aiman, Ponchoh and Cjay. Had to eat just a little bit coz we're heading off to the BFF Anniversary and we're having roasted lamb as well.

was piling up on these but remembered we'll have lamb at the anniversary

Love the food. Will go again for the ribs. Yummy!... Sluurp!...

Some photos taken with D40X + 18-135mm + SB600 and some using D80 + 50mm. Sweet!

BFF Anniversary - 23/03/08

2008-03-25T00:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, Brunei Forever Forum celebrated it's first anniversary at Blue Eden Restaurant in Kiulap. BFF is an informal photography group with a very strong number and are spread out to all 4 districts of Brunei Darussalam. You can see us in little, corporate and even major events, like National Day, His Majesty The Sultan's Birthday and the recently Maulud procession. And you will see us in more events in the coming future as the number is getting stronger.

Having started with only a few members, it started growing until now. I myself joined in last year and I'm proud to be part of it. As for today, there are 184 members registered under the forum consisting of photobloggers, photographers from professional to hobbyist or just shooting for fun. The forum is open to everyone, from otais to juniors, to join us, "friendship" is a must and the only membership fee.

The forum was where we post our photos and let it be commented or criticized. It's where we learn from each other... with the occasional "Thread Derailment". LOL ;p and I try not to miss anything in the forum. Because it's also where we plan our next outings and also confirming the weekly JC or BE sessions.

Check out the article in Brunei Times yesterday :)

AM Gunners Charity Football Match - 22/03/08

2008-03-22T00:26:00.000-07:00

It was wet as it rained last Saturday for the Charity Match between AM Gunners and Sports School. But the show must go on. And it was a very tight match, both teams couldn't score in the first half. Both teams started scoring on the 2nd half. And the first score for AM Gunners was scored by HRH Prince Abdul Mateen himself.

HRH Prince Mateen leading AM Gunners

AM Gunners FC

He dribbles

He shoots

He scores

HRH Prince Mateen celebrates

Thanking the spectators

HRH giving away the Captain armband

AM Gunners FC

The photogs

More photos here. <-(still uploading ;p)

ITF Junior Championship - 22/03/08

2008-03-21T22:29:00.000-07:00

More floaters! Went to the Tennis Complex for the ITF Junior Championship. Haven't played tennis for a while, and these kids are really good. I like taking shots while they're serving. Especially if the server is in the air. It reminds me of my matches. My cousins hated my serves, I just love giving aces. My idols before (and actually still) were Pete Sampras and Andre Agassi. Oh well, will come back to court one of these days.

I know... all ladies... here's one guy. heheh... ;p His serves were powerful. But his second serves are slooow....

Didn't stay long, it was freaking hot. And I didn't use sun block. Don't want to be burned again. Maybe tomorrow, if I have the time. Now I need to recharge... not the camera battery but me. I have a match to cover tonight. ;)

HM @ Taman SOAS - 20/03/08

2008-03-20T21:29:00.000-07:00

Photos of our beloved monarch, His Majesty The Sultan and Yang DiPertuan Negara Brunei Darussalam and the Royal entourage heading the Maulud procession yesterday morning in conjunction of anniversary birthday of Prophet Muhammad S.A.W. (Praise be upon him).

Was trying out black & white and loved the effects that I decided to post a whole set of black & whites. Can't wait for His Majesty's birthday celebration this coming July.

Mauludil Rasul - 20/03/08

2008-03-20T08:52:00.000-07:00

Went to Bandar early morning today for the Mauludil Rasul procession. It's the anniversary of the birthday of Prophet Muhammad (praise be upon him). It's done anually and the procession headed by our beloved monarch, His Majesty the Sultan himself.

RBA contigent in front of RBA Plaza

arrival of His Majesty

His Majesty with the Royal entourage on the Royal Dais

RBA personnel waiting for His Majesty

His Majesty greeting his subjects participating in the procession

the Royal Canon was fired

the nasyid

RBA

His Majesty heading the procession

Went back to RBA Plaza to rest, and I needed air-conditioning. (And I forgot to use sun block!) Took a shot of the ladies and went in for the doa to be read.

reading of the doa

Had a really fun time taking photos of the event with the BFF crew. Eventhough there were some hassle when trying to take photos of His Majesty the Sultan. Some photogs just doesn't care about others, very selfish and rude. And they're "PRO". What they're lack are... humility and courtesy. Tsk... tsk... and we Bruneians are suppose to be very courteous.

Media Press Conference - 17/03/08

2008-03-20T07:45:00.000-07:00

Some of us photobloggers were invited to attend the Media Press Conference for the upcoming AM Gunners Charity Football Match. We were briefed on the dos and don'ts.

the chairman briefing us

showing us the poster

we were asked not to leave unless we have some refreshments

the poster

Come this Saturday 22nd March, the AM Gunners will be squaring off against Sports School Football Team at Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in a Charity Match initiated by His Royal Highness Prince Abdul Mateen.

DST Women's Sports Day - 3rd Day - 16/03/08

2008-03-18T08:54:00.000-07:00

Went a bit late to the DST Women Sports Day last Sunday. Missed the events, it was the last event when I arrived. But I stayed to cover the prize giving and closing ceremony.

RBA team members giving moral support to their team mate.

now that's team spirit

returning to the tent

These are the participating teams

The overall team winners

MVP

Photo of the day

group photo

DJ Keejah *spelling*

freestyle

who's your fav photog? ;p

More photos here.