G E M B O

Happy New Year? Alhamdulillah, Happy New Year indeed.

2012-01-09T00:07:00.004+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

In the office last Friday, the 6th day of 2012, I still wished people happy new year and they reciprocated my wishes with excitement. Taking the cue from that, I still think it is not too late to wish the same to you, so Happy New Year to you all.

Yes, 2012 is just another year to some, but it means a lot to others who wanted to start with a clean sheet and all that, new resolutions, targets, goals, you name it. I wish you Allah's blessings and may you achieve your new goals for 2012.

We had a great closing of 2011. On the New Year's eve we hosted my mother in law's 66th birthday. My bro & sis in laws from Bandar stayed over and our kids enjoyed having their cousins around. We moved the fusbol table to the main entrance and let the kids (and a few adults :P) enjoy.

Our new year however did not start well. On the first public holiday of 2012, I was called in to the office to help the communication team with their press conference following a minor oilspill. After four hours away, I made up to the family by taking them out to the beach to see and also show them what had happened and then grabbed dinner. Alhamdulillah the beach was already cleared by the time we went there, but the kids simply enjoyed being at the beach including taking pics with one of the oil spill response transport.

The above photos were taken from The Borneo Bulletin.

The bottom picture showed the volunteers from Brunei Shell's

business partners helping out with the cleanup

Iman, Aaeeshah (hidden) and Muhammad with one of the

Oil Spill Response equipment, sort of special version ATV

to help with pulling the oil booms and other equipment

Our company men, doing their regular inspection to ensure

no more spill made shore after the cleanup.

The next day, school reopened and Alhamdulillah kids were alright, returning to their normal routine without much fanfare. Muhammad is now in Year 6 preparing for his PSR (Primary Certificate of Education). Iman got promoted to Year 3 and Aaesshah is no longer in kindy, now in Year 1.

I was however concerned that the school now requires every student to use the school's exercise book (with the school logo). Nonetheless, I bought the exercise books from the school for my three children for nearly $55, although I felt I could save $15 or even $20 if I were to buy them from the shops. It's not much, yes but for those families who earn just enough to get by, it would be a burden. After all, an exercise book is the an exercise book, right? The logo doesn't make a difference at all, so why bother? I pick my battles, so I relented in this case.

On a different light and a cheery one at that, we welcomed the arrival of my new nephew Awangku Ariff Rayyan bin Pengiran Azirul Ridzuan, a baby boy to my younger brother and his wife born at 5.28am on Sunday morning, 8th January. Alhamdulillah Rayyan looked healthy, and weighed 3.7kg. We were up early on a Sunday for the hour long drive to see Rayyan, who was sound asleep all the while we were there and was not at all bothered with the attention. He even posed for us!

Baby Rayyan, sound asleep and thinking :-)

Abang Muhammad, Kaka Aaeeshah, Ngangah Girl and Kaka Iman.

Ngangah Haji behind the camera :-)

Till next time, Happy New Year to all. Be safe always.

Wassalam

Mr G

ps - on the way home from seeing Rayyan, we saw two cars involved in an accident. I believed it was caused by a car making a U-turn (legal) but not anticipating the speed of the oncoming car, he got hit at the back and swerved. The driver felt pain on his back so we told him to sit tight and wait for emergency services once we've confirmed there was no bleeding. The other driver was ok, his car badly damaged at the front and he was thankful that he wore his safety belt. 2 points to note here: Situational awareness and using the safety equipment. If you are on top of that, InsyaAllah things should be alright.

Meet my friend ERIC. ERIC PD.

2011-12-26T22:08:00.003+08:00

Assalamualaikum

Last night we returned home from a short holiday in the capital, a 100 km drive home. In torrential rain. I knew the tyres are in good condition as I've checked them before the trip. Brakepads are still ok from recent servicing checks and the dashboard control lights indicate everything are ok. Despite all that I drove at only 60km/h in the 100km/h zone. With precious cargoes on board - 4 loved ones, I would do anything to ensure their safety.

Apart from my ever so faithful co-pilot Mrs G who kept me company with iPad playing songs from when we started going out 14 years ago, I was also guided by a friend, ERIC PD. ERIC tells me how to control the hazards of the trip.

OK, ERIC PD is not a real person, but a lego-man and in the Health and Safety world is oft used term to spell out the hierarchy of controls to control risks of any activity.

How often have we seen or heard in the news or even on facebook after a major accident, that people would ask the authorities to tighten the rules, which is actually way down the order to control risks. Let me share with you what ERIC PD means:

E mean Eliminate. Get rid of the hazard, or replace with something less hazardous. Eliminating the trip is a no-no, so I moved on to the next level.

R means Reduce: Reduce the nature of the hazard or the exposure to the hazard. In our case, we drove from home to hotel - point A to point B, no detour. I also made sure everyone wore their seat belts. When we reached the hotel, we walk around the area rather than driving around.

I means Isolate. Isolate the hazard from the people. In industries, if a machine is too noisy, then we isolate them i.e. put it at a distance to the point that it is doesn't cause noise hazards to the workers.

C means Control. Control who has access to the hazard. Limit the exposure time as only necessary. Ensure all the controls/procedures are in place.

P means Protection. Always assume that what could go wrong would go wrong, and always wear personal protective equipment. The standard fare where I work, the standard protection are fire retardant coveralls, safety boots, helmets, goggles and to some extent, gloves.

D means Discipline. All controls are monitored, reviewed and enforced. Any breach of the controls will be dealt with accordingly.

Alhamdulillah we reached home in 1 hr 40 mins, against the usual 1 hr 10 mins. Half an hour late, but we arrived safely. Thanks to my wife and also ERIC. Alhamdulillah.

During the drive home we were overtaken by cars we reckon were doing c. 120-130km/h. The highway was like a river yet the mindless drivers drive like they were boats! At the highway near our destination, we saw two tow trucks with a police car in chase - today I heard there were 7 injuries in an accident related to that, with a person suffering broken leg. Let's hope everyone recovers well. And share their ordeal on what caused the accident and tell others how to prevent it from happening.

Let's see how you can apply ERIC PD to your day to day activity. In the kitchen. In your garden. In the bedroom :D

Always think safety.

Take care & till then, Wassalam.
G

Missing...

2011-12-20T20:45:00.001+08:00

Salaam

Alhamdulillah. I am back. I have been trying to be back for a while now. Over tea this afternoon my dear wife made a profound comment: she missed reading my blog. I did not realize that. A few of my blogger friends have stopped blogging, and so I thought that is how the blog universe works. Your blog dies silently.

You see, my wife love reading blogs, of shoppings, holidays, life, cookings... you name it. She reads the blogs linked on the right hand column. Every day. She will share with me the very interesting ones and the one yesterday evening prompted me to dust off this blog.

The blog was of Pak Mat, at http://tatak-tatak.blogspot.com/ and his blog entry of death was very sad indeed. Pak Mat is a retiree, in his mid 60's and had just returned from Haj pilgrimage. One of his four roommates during Haj died whilst in the Holy land, and his narration of what they faced brought tears to my eyes. Pak Mat's blog was so well written that it does not reflect a middle age person where English is not his or her mother tongue.

Anyway, it is two days short of 5 months hiatus for me. There are lots of potential blog entries missed, such as:

my wife's birthday at the end of July
all my three children completed their Ramadhan fast without missing a single day!
our 4th Hari Raya Aidil Fitri in our crib
our 11th wedding anniversary (I love you Sayang) and the subsequent celebratory trip to Melbourne
Iman's 8th birthday (when my wife and I was on our last day in Melbourne
exam blues for all my three children and Muhammad finished 6th in Year 5, Iman 1st in Year 2 and Aaeeshah 2nd in KG3.
Aaeeshah's Kindergarten graduation ceremony (and buying her gift even before we reach home!)
I was honored to be with a man blinded through an industrial accident 21 years ago, and travelled around the world to talk about safety - how he had disappointed his family and friends
My wife and I travelled to Bandung with a couple of bloggers
Local holiday in December - 2 days leave left, what to do (and of course $$ :|)
2012!

It took me a good 1 hour to write this up whilst watching the 8 o'clock news. I hope it'll be more frequent.

I needed this. This is what I do for my day job, well sort of: communicate on Safety.

Till next time, InsyaAllah. I hope you enjoyed it. I did.

Salaam, Gembo

It is safe... or is it?

2011-07-21T20:24:00.000+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

I got the following sets of photos in the email a week ago.

These are interesting photos actually, improvisation of tools or equipment, or shortcuts to do work. After all, you get to finish the work quickly. Had the workers gone through the hassles of getting proper scaffolding or longer ladders, it'll take more time or even cost them more and it'll mean lower profits, right? Well, it depends, purely on luck I supposed. One wrong move or slip, you're gone. Look at the pictures. What do you think?

Balancing the ladder on the edge of the floor

Oh yes, the walk plug socket is meant to support the ladder

Who needs scaffolding when you have a plank

I don't know what this fella is doing, but I am pretty sure the air-cond brackets is meant to support the compressor, not an idiot

Once he's done fixing the rear axle, he should think of fixing his brain. He need to tune his perception of risks!

They will enjoy cold food & drinks once the fridge is installed. They can also freeze their brains!

Another one balancing his ladder, this time on a narrow edge

This photo gave me the creeps. How many floors are there again?

Resting in peace...let's hope they will not Rest In Peace!

Whatever you do my friends, please do the right thing. If an activity is not safe, or if you are unsure if it is safe, do the right thing and don't continue the activity. Think of your loved ones.

Be safe. Wassalam.

Gembo

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

2011-07-20T01:36:00.001+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

Have you ever encountered real life Jekyll n Hyde? I have... many times but today I've decided to put it down to paper... err blog.

Today, after a long day at the office, I called up a local hotel to book a room for the weekend, to wind down with the kids after my short trip last week, and my long hours in the office this week. That's when a Mr (or rather Ms) Hyde was at the other end of the line.

Ms Hyde spoke quickly, so quick that I couldn't catch what she was saying, not due to the fact that I have slight deafness from childhood indulgence in the walkman but rather to her unfortunate failure at trying a slang that was a marriage between American-Filipino-British tongue. Alas, I managed to get a room booked. That's all that matters for me!

Ok, 11 months ago, I got a call from the same hotel, from a Dr Jekyll. Possibly a mutated Dr Jekyll as she also speak in that unfortunate slang. Dr Jekyll offered me to join the hotel membership club.

The lure of discounted meals, free nights and lunches attracted me, so I signed up.

What disappoints me though, is the continuing attitude of such people, nice when they need you but unwelcoming when we call them up to book a room, especially when they realised we are going to use the free vouchers. We've paid, didn't we? not that we are begging. Mind you, not all of them are bad, I've met good ones but they are getting more difficult to come across now. Rare species them.

Anyway, at this point, 1.30 in the morning and having just finished amending a 20 page slide for an afternoon session tomorrow (or rather, later), I've run out of juice trying to think what to write more. It annoyed me so bad I just have to let it out.

Oh well, good night all. Or good morning. Sleep tight.

Wassalam,

Mr G

Dirgahayu Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik

2011-07-14T19:23:00.000+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

15th July has always been a special occasion for us Bruneians, and tomorrow will be no exception. It is a date when our beloved ruler, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah was born in 1946, and His Majesty will be 65 this year.

Dirgahayu Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik, and I, your humble and loyal subject pray for your health, wisdom and happiness, and continue to rule the nation to prosperity with the guidance and will of Allah, Amin.

taken from www.royalbirthday.org.bn

Wassalam,

Azmi

Catching up.... Iman's award for 2010, Congratulations Sayang!

2011-07-10T08:31:00.000+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

Again, catching up on those 'missing' posts... this time, an event in April, where Iman was awarded for finishing second in her class of Year 1 at St James's School.

During the last Parent-Teacher consultation day in May, her class teacher for Year 2 commented that there is nothing to worry about Iman, her work ethics, her understanding, her attention... All OK... If anything it would be her handwriting heheh, they're neat but too tiny for the teacher's liking. I have to agree with the teacher and looks like Iman has addressed that now :-)

Less writing and more photos today.

Wassalam,

Mr G

To my fellow Bruneians... CSPS needs your help

2011-07-09T16:42:00.004+08:00

Assalamualaikum

Are you a graduate? Are you currently employed / unemployed or overqualified for your job? If you are, then Brunei Centre for Strategic and Policy Studies (CSPS) needs your help, to help you.

Yes, help CSPS to help you.

Help CSPS by filling their online questionnaire - just visit their website: www.csps.org.bn, their facebook page: www.facebook.com/csps.brunei or straight to their online questionnaire at csps.graduate-employment.sgizmo.com/s3/.

I've helped them and filled the questionnaires. It took me less than 10 minutes to complete.

To manage your expectations, there is no prizes for completing it. But I do hope CSPS will gather enough responses and information to help their research and to come up with new initiatives or new changes for Brunei to adopt and help the future generations of graduates.

All the best CSPS.

Wasalam,
Mr G

Alhamdulillah... what next?

2011-07-09T14:26:00.003+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

I mentioned in my previous post I moved to a new job, now looking after Health, Safety and Environment Data & Reporting (HSE).

I was also required to attend a NEBOSH Certificate course (to do with Occupational Health and Safety), which I attended dry, yes, dry with no previous experience in safety at all. It was quite surreal and intimidating to be sitting amongst others who have years of experience under their belts.

The course dates couldn't have been worse - it was during my last 2 weeks as Insurance Advisor and during handover to my successor. The routine for the first week of studies was: wake up at 6, drive kids to school at 7, attend classes 7.30 to 4, back to office for handover from 4.30 to 7.30, revise from 10 to 2 am.... and repeat seqence all over again. The second week, I couldn't even do the handover, my brain just refused to cooperate. And I had to rely on 2 cans of Red Bull every day. Yes, 2. Every day. It made me alert and hyper, but the energy level shot down by 6pm.

Since the final exam on 1st April till 3rd week of June, I've been nervously checking my mailboxes - email and the red box - so worried about what the result would be. I finally received my results via email on the 3rd week of June and I passed! Alhamdulillah. And a couple of days ago I got the official slip via snail mail, and it is now confirmed: I passed with a D... YES! I passed, with a D!

My wife was so happy for me. She had been there for me, handled the kids all by herself during the 2 weeks, well, except for me sending the kids to school and look after my meals and everything. The kids were also ecstatic to hear their daddy passed. It was a huge relief. My colleagues were surprised when I told I passed with the D, and were very generous with their compliments.

Alhamdulillah. I've spoken to the boss, what next? Diploma is next, possibly. For the mean time I just need to get my hands dirty. Get busy. So far so good, that I think I got my name crossed out from a few people's Hari Raya mailing list, one example was my post on Just a thought.

Well, that's life. But Alhamdulillah. All the efforts and sacrifices paid off.

Wassalam & Have a Great & Safe Weekend All,
Mr G

Kaseh Ibu... Rindu Babu

2011-07-08T07:41:00.001+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

8th July 2004. My beloved mom Hajah Millie Haji Mohd Noor left us forever. Allah has given me the pleasure of 30 years being with my mom. Affectionately called Babu in the household, she passed quietly in her sleep. I accepted the Will of Allah, much as I love to have Babu to look after my children the way Mama, my dear grandma, did as I grew up, I couldn't bear to see Babu suffering from her illness.

37 years ago. Safe and Secure in my Babu's loving hold

Growing up with my grandparents, my brother and I only see Babu during the weekends. Life was not difficult then but jobs were generally available in the capital, 2 hours drive from our kampong. So Babu and my dad, striving to ensure our lives are well and equipped had to be away from us for 5 days every week.

Lovingly bathing me. Me not-so-loving the water

The other night, listening to the song I Want To Hold Your Hand by Kurt (Glee), I cried and cried and recalled memories with Babu. I just want to hold her hand that night, as I always did when I visited her at hospital. Babu was a tough disciplinarian and a perfectionist, I guess as she was an only child, and I attribute where I am now partly a result of that. Despite all that, Babu had always been there for me, in pain, in glory, in sadness and in happiness.

Look at that proud face holding Muhammad :-)

I've been unlucky a few times on the road, once a victim of careless driver and later due to false assumption of the tyre condition. Both were more than half hour drive from our family home. Despite her condition, breathlessness and having to bring her oxygen tank around, she insisted for my brother to drive her to be with me. My two brothers were also unlucky on the road then, and even in the middle of the night, the motherly instinct brought her to the scenes. She rarely said the I love yous but her actions showed that.

Babu a proud granny, again, here holding Iman

The last few memories were of Babu frequenting the ICU's for her condition, most of the time due to excess fluid in her lungs. There was one occasion, a doctor saw my wife and I, Babu told him that I was her son and my wife is her daughter in law. The doctor asked her if she had any grandchildren, she proudly said in her perfect English, "I do, I have a grandson and a granddaughter".

This was her last Hari Raya in 2003 with Muhammad and Iman. Look at the twinkle in her eyes.

I miss Babu. Muhammd was fortunate enough to be around Babu when he grew up. He was three then. At times he would say that he missed Babu and we would drive down the road, and prayed at her grave.

Al-Fatihah to Babu, O Allah Almighty, please bless my mother for all her sacrifices and her love for us, please grant my mother a beautiful place in paradise. Amin.

:'''(

Wassalam,

Good read my lord!

2011-07-07T07:13:00.001+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

Everyone loves reading. At least that is what I know in my family. Like I've blogged before I grew up with my grandma, and before she sleeps every night she would read her kitab ugama (religious books) or the malay newspaper. My late mom would have stakes of magazines. My Abang loves to read as well, the same favourite author as mine even.

My wife loves reading too, again the same favourite author as mine and now Muhammad loves reading too (Wimpy Kids.. David Copperfield), Iman (Wimpy Kids & Enid Blytons) and Asha, feedback from the teacher is there is no problem with her reading, so there.

Yesterday, I received two packages that arrived in the same day, one from acmamall and the other from Amazon UK. The thing is, the latest Jeffrey Archer (oh did I say my favourite author is Lord Archer?) arrived in June and I fought with the missus to read the book :-)... not literally fight of course. Once we finished that book, we got withdrawal - reading is like a drug you know! So we wanted to read Lord Archer's other books, I knew I had these books before but must have lost them when I moved around in the last 20 years. So I got these new 'old' ones... they're good read and thriller, and I highly recommend Kane and Abel, it is the best!

Wassalam,
Mr G

Just a thought..

2011-07-05T00:23:00.001+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

First and foremost, this is the first blogpost I've ever made from my year old iPad... Exactly a year old today - Got it during my 10th year anniversary honeymoon at Leeds UK, on July 5th 2010.

About my thought.....just to let it out, I ~~spent~~ wasted a good 10 minutes last Friday afternoon listening to a graduate complaining and refusing to do something that the grad is qualified to do, just because some of the others aren't qualified. The grad felt it is unfair that he/she ended doing a bigger share of the task.

I was at lost at this kind of behaviour.... I mean, why miss such good opportunity to shine & sell yourself? Instead of trying to get extra brownie points, the grad ended up painting a bad picture which possibly will be etched in not just my mind but the other leaders.

I enjoyed coaching others, much like Ed did to me, and I had coached a few grads in Finance where I'd been before... But in this case, I tried to talk some sense into the grad but there was no chance, the grad kept on repeating the words 'unfair' like it's the only line rehearsed before that call. On a Friday afternoon, that's the last thing you want to waste your time on, so I gave up.

My words of advise, sell yourself. Try your best and don't you ever shoot yourself in the foot. Take every opportunity that comes your way. Me? I am still working on it, trying my best... Heck, i've just completed 3 months in my new job and enjoying every minute of it. Please pray for my success. Thanks.

Wassalam, G

Catching Up... Farewell to Ed and the Three Musketeer$

2011-07-03T21:14:00.000+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

As promised, another catching up post... This time an event in February for the farewell of my boss, Ed and two other leaders Mark N and Mark T, the trio aptly nicknamed the Three Musketeers.

Edwin Bolton or Ed to close colleagues, had been with the company for 4 1/2 years since October 2006. His boyish looks belied the talents, the sharp mind underneath and took some of us back, especially that he was a couple of years younger than me. But Ed was like a sponge - within weeks of arriving he's got grip of what we're doing and within months steered the ship well.

Ed work late, at times over the weekend, sometimes I'd call him dull Jack as he's always avoided any non-work company events. It's not that the work was getting too much, he'll find work to do when he's free!

For Ed to suddenly inherit 30 people when he arrived was a huge shock for him, more so all his 4 direct reports were older than him. How he handled it become my very own personal thesis - I now lead a team of only three but I used every tricks that Ed applied to win us all, to help me take my own ship out of the harbour. I am not there yet, but I look up to him for inspiration if there seems to be rough waters ahead.

Of all the bosses that I've had in my 15 working years, I'd have to say Ed shaped me to who I am now and who I wanted to be. When things got so bad for me, he picked me up and helped me turn around from worst to best performance within a year. Thanks Ed. You're my inspiration.

Ed had been married to Emma just over a year when they arrived in Brunei, and he left Brunei with Olly, one and half years old then and Toby at the end of his second trimester. Toby was safely born in UK last month.

Ed was only one of the three, they weren't even called the Three Musketeers during their time in the company, it was only coined when all three were to leave the company in quick succession Marc N left early Feb, Mark T left end Feb and Ed left end March, Ed in the same time that I moved on to my new job.

Adios you Mu$keteer$... All for One, One for All. We wish you the best in all your future endeavours!

Ed getting his 'Kain Songket' frame from Ralph

The Three Musketeer$... Marc N, Ed, Ralph and Mark T.

Ed receiving gifts from Zainee on behalf of the team

Wasalam

Azmi

Tora.. Tora.. Tora....

2011-06-26T21:23:00.001+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

Waiting for lunch on a very warm and humid Saturday yesterday, I got into FB to kill time - looking at the rants, the love messages, the complaints and all that what my FB friends had to offer. Suddenly I got an FB message from a dear old friend.

We were in the same class from kindergarten in 1979 until Form 5, minus a couple of years during lower secondary when I moved to Government school and he followed suit a couple of years later. Tora and I went to the same sixth-form college in 1991 but he lasted only three months - his GCE 'O' levels result the year before was so good the government sent him abroad to do his A levels and subsequently his medical studies in Ireland.

During a motivational talk for the government scholarship students three years later, I was so proud I had goosebumps when the Director of Studies mentioned, "Tora is not only the best Bruneian student in Ireland, he IS the best student in Ireland". That was MY friend Tora Leong. Today he is Dr Dr Tora Leong Sun Fu - he is a medical doctor and got his PhD last year. He brushed it aside as nothing - that is Tora.

I graduated in 1997 and has worked for 2 companies in 14 years. In contrast, Tora is STILL practising / specialising in Ireland and London, with the last leg in Paris later this year, before he is due to return to Brunei in 2012. By then he will be one of the few local cardiologist Brunei has to offer.

The thing I remembered most about Tora is his big handwriting (he claimed being a doctor, that is now long gone), he plays piano very well (he said he has little time for that now) and the best one, he's very very smart yet very down to earth. He enjoyed having meals at the gerai (stalls) and loved local coffee (Kopi kampung) that he'll bring back to UK following his short trip home. At school he mingled with everyone, and make time to assist us on the math and sciences... including my wife and I.

So, Tora came home on Thursday and will fly back to UK this coming Thursday. Mr Leong's two elder sons came home especially to celebrate his 7th decade of life. In between, as is his usual practice during his trip back, Tora had personal audience with the Minister of Health on his specialization and catching up on old friends, including yours truly.

Tora's FB message to me was to check if I would have time for coffee with him. Who wouldn't. So I agreed immediately and spent the afternoon baking my wife's favourite - Cinnamon Rolls - which my wife assured me would go well with coffee. She wasn't lying. I am sinfully hooked.

Tora came around half eight and we chatted until well after 11 about everything: his life, his studies, our childhood friends, my kids, his dad's 70 years birthday, also the fact that the mother still remembers me despite haven't seen me for the last 20 years!

It has been a pleasure having you Tora, and we look forward to have you around again.

Coffee with Dr Dr Tora last night

This was taken 2 years ago, after another short trip.

Wassalam,
Azmi

Catching up.... Asha is 5 @ 11.1.11

2011-06-21T20:54:00.002+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

I had a very long couple of days at work. As I said, new job and I loved every minute of it and the challenges. It's two days now that I could only leave after 6.

But I am trying my best to keep to my promise (to myself) to get back to writing, or blogging rather.

I am catching up to those missed posts, to start with, my Baby Princess's birthday. Before going further, let me explain why I am posting 'old' stories: Well, the Gembo Juniors surf the net everyday and they question their Babah on the static Gembo blog. They love and enjoy seeing their 'stories' on the web. Iman surfs on her iPod touch, Asha on daddy's old MacBook and Muhammad on any of the two.

Asha, my Gembo Junior #3, turned 5 about 5 moons ago on a very nice date, 11.1.11. Apart from sharing with you that she had two parties - one with the family at home and another one with her friends at school, I won't say much and let you enjoy these well preserved photos.

Ancu Leeja baked these nice cupcakes. They tasted as good as they looked!

And we got this for her birthday at home too...

That's Baby Princess Asha

Getting her first steps (or rolls rather) with her Kaka Iman and Abang Muhammad

And here's Asha going solo

Now, this is Asha's cake at school. Ice cream cake, mind you.

Teachers made sure Asha's kindy classmates lined up and sang her Happy Birthday

A proud looking Asha

And a happier smile next to her darling Mummy

Every classmates greeted her, including the prince of the class, Danish

Now that's the widest smile I'd seen in any of her birthday photos

One of Asha's all time favourite, water/soap bubbles

Asha and her beloved Kaka Iman, with the gifts from her classmates

Wassalam,
G

Now, that's a long time!

2011-06-19T19:26:00.001+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

I have been very quiet on the social networking since the turn of the year. No posts of my kids' birthday (Aaeeshah on 11.1.11 and Muhammad on 28.5.11), our travels (February shopping, April F1 and June school holidays) or Muhammad's rise to adulthood.

Close friends knew my reasons. Alhamdulillah the family is all well.

My reasons? Time... or rather the lack of it.

The thing is, I have moved on from the Insurance section where I have been for the last 8 1/2 years to a new job in Safety. Still with the same Company. The move had been given the green light in August last year and materialised only in April this year as my successor only joined in March.

Over the turn of the year, I had to ensure all the insurance documents, procedures, manuals, controls and what nots to be in place by the time my successor join us. By the time she joined, I had practically a month to do the handover.

To make it more challenging, I attended a 2 weeks NEBOSH course (on Safety) with practically zero experience in Safety from mid-March. I still had to do the handover from 4pm till 7 at night, or 9pm at one point. Luckily for me this lady is well qualified and knew the stuff well, so handover was a breeze. Still, in between the handover and the classes the next day I had to do revisions at night and the result came out just last Friday... I passed! Alhamdulillah. With distinction.... Alhamdulillah. Alhamdulillah. Thanks to my wife for keeping the kids distracted during my course & revisions, and for reassuring me that I'd do well.

So with this... would I return to regular blogging? And update my Twitter & Facebook accounts? I can't promise but it feels good. The writing feels good. It keeps my mind going and away from work. I can sense that my wife misses my blogs too. She reads.

I still have a lot to do and READ in my new job. I finished reading a 70 page manual whilst waiting for my son's procedure last Tuesday. 3 hours read. Heavy stuff. And there is another Framework paper to be read - all 216 pages of it!

About reading, I've just finished reading Jeffrey Archer's latest book Only Time Will Tell during the recent holiday to KL and the reading felt good. So good that I reread his old book, the Eleventh Commandment and finished in three days. It felt good, and helps with my vocabulary.

Now, the writing felt good. I hope to blog more. Sooner, rather than in another 6 months. InsyaAllah.

Salam,
Gembo

Goodbye 2010... Hello 2011

2011-01-16T19:30:00.000+08:00

Assalaamu 'Alaikum

This is a late post, a very very belated but short one at that, to wish families and friends a great 2011 ahead, leaving 2010 gracefully taking away the lessons and experience for the years ahead.

photo taken by Muhammad Abdurrahman. Love u son.

Brothers in Arms

2010-12-26T13:04:00.000+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

After a hectic long week with two insurance renewals, coupled with a day of sick leave, I finally took a break in Bandar with the family. The GemboKids have a chance to sleep over with their cousins, at my wife's sister's place (easier to say my sis in law), or my best friend's sister in law's place (basically the same person).

Talking about best friends, Alhamdulillah I am blessed with quite a number. At the movie yesterday, watching Gulliver's Travel, I met one of them with his family, my very own 'Barney Stinson' if I were to be Ted hahaha (You'll only know this if you watch How I Met Your Mother). I will be seeing another best friend today, a visit to his new crib, as I couldn't make it to his housewarming thanksgiving prayers recently.

**pause** went to the Tungku Beach with our host for ATV rides and played with the waves. On the way there, we stopped by a minimart, and guess what? I met another best friend. Small world. I guess Allah has willed that I meet as much best friend during this long weekend.**

Yeah, I was about to write about Brothers In Arms. It is actually a song by Dire Straits. The lyrics are quite poetic, but these lines always reminded me of my very own dire moment - no pun intended - in February of last year. My brothers along with many other caring individuals came to my bedside, to pray for my wellbeing and offered support to my dear wife. I haven't seen some of my brothers for years, but they came in the droves when they heard of my illness. I love you bros.

...... In the fear and alarm

You did not desert me

My brothers in arms

These are my brothers in arms (not all of them).

....however

2010-12-16T22:02:00.000+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

This has been a hectic time of the year at work, not just because it is the year end (chasing targets, KPI etc), but in my case, I have to renew insurance programs.

In the absence of a few key people, others have to deputise as the signatories, and one happened to be a good friend of mine. Approaching him professionally, we reviewed the renewal proposal together and he suddenly laughed out loud.... "You have too much 'however' in this submission!", and he said that kind of words would normally jump out, and in most cases viewed as negative..... well, couple of things, you have to hear me out....

Ok, in my defence the 'however' was to negate the negative, so it becomes a positive - for those you studied math, minus times minus equals plus, right? Like a salesman, I convinced him just that, that is negating the negative (that's a fact, I wasn't trying to screw him heheh), and he finally approved!

Secondly, I didn't realise that I used too much 'however' until he pointed it out. And it's just not in this proposal, but in many others. I guess it is my OCDs or what the Bruneian Malays would call 'paingan' hahah, which also reminded me of my early days following graduation. As a government scholar, I had to apply for jobs with the government and had to write in the application letters in Malay. After the first cut, I asked my then girlfriend (of course MrsG!) to review, and she counted more than TEN 'juga' in the 3 paragraphed letter - 'juga' is Malay for 'also'.... oh, she still remembers that till today, and still laughed about it when she recalled that letter.

However, it is 10 now and I have to hit the sack, however I need to ensure the kids are all asleep. I could just go straight to bed, however if they are still up, they will definitely knock on the door.

However, I have now checked on them and its confirmed, they're all asleep.

Thank you and good night.

Be safe.

Wassalam
MrG

Lloyd's of London

2010-12-16T06:06:00.002+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum

Fortunately I am up early this morning, so need to clear of this spider webs :-)

Browsing through my iPhoto, I came across some pics from my recent honeymoon holiday to UK back in July. Can't remember whether I blogged about that holiday though.

Anyway, despite not a long trip, I somehow managed to squeeze half a day on courtesy calls to our insurance brokers, underwriters and also visit the Shell centre! My wife didn't mind much, as she got Westfield to keep her busy.

For those who know me personally, will know my career has always been in insurance and for those who know me professionally, I deal with insurance which has at some point, to be insured at this respectable institution.

The building below is Lloyd's building in London, a very fine piece of architecture housing the Lloyd's of London, an international insurance and reinsurance market with history stretching back to the late 1600's. Here the broker I was with asked me to pretend to be a broker and carry his slip file. Do I look the part? Anyway, what is not shown here is the 'market' itself, the lower floors housed the 'boxes' which are manned by the underwriters, with brokers queueing to get these underwriters to participate in their clients' insurances.... I know, too much insurance lingo, but my insurance friends should be able to understand this... i hope. Anyway, I couldn't show the pics here cos' there were no pics - camera's are banned boohoo.... but, nah just enjoy whatever I could snap below.

The photo below the Committee Room at the 11th floor, an 18th century dining-room designed for the 2nd Earl of Shelburne by Robert Adam in 1763; it was transferred piece-by-piece from the previous Lloyd's building... Yikes!

Now this is also an interesting office building in London, nicknamed the Gherkin, cos' it is shaped like one! This is the Swiss Re building. Unfortunately we do not have direct dealing with Swiss Re or anyone there so no reason for me to visit.

That's a quick short update & should keep the spiders away.

Till next time, be safe.

Wassalam,

MrG

Uh oh..

2010-12-15T21:36:00.000+08:00

Assalamualaikum everyone..

It's coming back again... the spiders are coming back to build their webs on my blog. Was about to blog about the gifts, and the work stress, and my impending move....

...but, by the time my wife and I reached home from work, solat Asar and Maghrib, we're left with just hanging out with the kids with whatever ounces of energy left, let alone to blog.

On my last blog, all of you (macam banyak saja hehehe) guessed right. My dear wife bought me a luscious red Kitchenaid mixer, and I got her an iPhone4. It's obvious what she wanted me to do, right? Well, she felt so sorry to see me baked carrot cakes and cheese cakes and many more on a flimsy mixer, and she got me the granddaddy of mixers :-)

So far I've used the mixer to bake choc chips cookies and mixed cream for my scones. I will try to post blogs on my future bakings/cookings on this dusty *cough* blog of mine... InsyaAllah.

Till then, be safe always.

Wassalam
Mr G

Our 10 years anniversary gift to each other... Teaser

2010-12-07T21:22:00.000+08:00

It has been more than 3 months since our 10th wedding anniversary but only recently that we got to give each other our anniversary gifts.

Can you guess what they are and who gets what :) ?

Oh, this isn't part of the anniversary gifts, but I got it just last weekend too :-)

Empire Strikes Back!

2010-12-07T21:02:00.000+08:00

After a year filled with travels, I'm left with only one day of leave, which I decided to carry forward to next year. Luckily, I joined my supervisor to conduct a training at an offshore platform, on a WEEKEND a couple of months back, that I had a leave given in lieu which I decided to use on Monday, thus made my own long weekend as today Tuesday is a public holiday.

The Gembo Kids had their fair share of travels, to the Universal Studios Singapore and seeing their cousins in Kuching for Hari Raya, so we decided to have a local holiday at the Empire Hotel. The attraction for the kids were the vast pools, the man-made beach as well as the cinema and bowling, although this time round we spent more times at the pool, and for Muhammad, on his skateboard and a mountain bike.

Enjoy the pics...

Our room is at the third floor (to the left of the pic). Mrs G is seen at the bottom of the pic, looking at the kids trying to build sandcastles.

This place never fails to impress me with the architecture and built, and of course the landscape and ocean view. The same cannot be said of some of the services :-(

It was snowing when we were there.. INSIDE the buidling :o

The Gembo Kids enjoying the 'snow'

If this is a house, this big marble pillar would have been the tiang seri or the main pillar. Again, very impressive, and the Empire Hotel has decorated it appropriately for the holiday season.

A poor monkey was caught in the snow heheh

These are my very own 'Ramona and Beezus' - I love you Iman and Aaeeshah

It got too cold, luckily Iman found a fireplace to get warm

The Gembo Kids creating their own Gingerbread Men

... whilst my sister Leeja was served drinks by Little Lady Santa

Here are their creations... from the left, Iman, Muhammad and Aaeeshah

Here are the creators of those Gingerbread Men

Iman and Aaeeshah found their own snowmen

Aaeeshah would love to see this pic posted on my blog

The Gembo Kids energy levels were really down after a long day at the beach.

3 more months....

2010-12-01T20:17:00.002+08:00

Countdown...

Sadness

2010-12-01T07:15:00.001+08:00

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullah

Over the past week, I have heard the sad passing of three people we knew... my wife's late brother's friend, my classmate and best friend during primary 2 Religious school, and the father of our close friend.

The first 2 shocked us, as they were at almost the same age as us. Uncle was 60+ when he passed.

Whatever the causes of their passing, Allah knows best, but we as Allah's humble creation should always remember that we will not be spared. Our time will come. We will not know when, but what we can do is prepare for the next phase.

Different beliefs have different needs or preparation. In my belief, there is an afterlife which InsyaAllah will be secure for us provided that we obey all our obligations to Allah and leave those that Allah forbids.

In terms of worldly preparations, I believe there is no difference to the different beliefs, but rather to the attachments with whom we will leave behind. In most cases people would ensure that they leave behind a roof for their loved ones, and education to prepare for the rest of their life. Of course, those with additional income will ensure they leave behind wealth to ensure their loved ones have something to start with.

I often cried quietly on hearing these news, on losing friends and also the thought of what if this happens to us. It will inevitably happen, so I have to constantly remind myself to prepare.

Inna lillahi Wainna Ilaihi Rojiun (Truly we belong to Allah and to Allah we shall be returned).

Wassalam,
Mr G

Kalau babah jadi bintang...?

2010-11-28T19:24:00.000+08:00

Assalamualaikum friends

This past week has been a tiring one, all in all I was only at my desk not more than one full day, attending meetings and all that, preparing for our 2011 insurance renewals.

Lots of things over the past few weeks, mostly work but a few family ventures...

Exams! and the results.

Alhamdulillah, the Gembo kids passed with good results. Aaeeshah got 8 A's and 1 B... heheh, but in Kindergarten anyone could get A's, but Alhamdulillah, her teacher said Aaeeshah can read slowly, which is good preparation for her Upper Kindergarten next year.

Muhammad improved on his mid year's exam, his average increased from 89% to 91%, and up from 6th to 5th. He was quite said that he didn't get the top three (so no Wii (1st), no iPod touch (2nd), no Nitendo DS (3rd)).

Iman. Whenever we asked her to do revision, she said OK. When we asked her teacher before the exam, she said Iman is the least of her worries. When the result was out, she end up no2 and her average was only 0.03% lower than no 1. She definitely will get her iPod, sadly it ran out of stock when we were in Bandar yesterday.

3D Movies!!

Last weekend we tried out the 1st 3D cinema in Brunei at the Mall. The kids were restless as they had nothing to do at home, now that the exam has finished and nobody bothered to turn up at school. So we brought the kids to watch the Megamind 3D movie... It was a strange superhero movie, but don't get me wrong - the storyline was great but the 3D effects made it even much better. It's just that the villain end up as the superhero when the real superhero just called it quits! I also didn't realise it was Brad Pitt in the movie too, of course as the superhero and Will Ferrell is hilarious as a villain - I don't think Jim Carrey can pull it off with the same effect.

Meanwhile, yesterday we watched Rapunzel: The Tangled Tale 3D movie... it was a great movie, typical of Disney cartoons with little animal characters and of course, songs. Kids love them, and we did too. The 3D effects are real real nice... I'd recommend you to watch it. Five stars from me!

Football

It's no secret that I'm a fan of Man Utd... There was a game last night against Blackburn Rovers. We arrived home from the family outing, at 11.15 and I went straight to watch the live game on telly, as well as the usual banter on FB. It was already 2-0 by the time I watched the game, and watched all the remaining 5 goals, oooh by the way, we won 7-1 last nite :-). It was a great result considering Blackburn have always been a resilient opponent to Man Utd for many years... and oh, we're now on top of the Premier League.

Kalau Babah jadi bintang

This morning after breakfast, as Aaeeshah was watching her Spongebob tv show, I asked her a few silly questions heheh... here goes.

Me: Asha, kalau babah jadi aeroplane, Asha mau jadi apa? (If daddy becomes an aeroplane, what would you be?)

Asha: Aeroplane, pasal Asha mau terabang sama babah (Aeroplane, so I can fly with you)

Me: Oooh, sweet... kalau babah jadi bulan? (If daddy becomes the moon?....)

Asha: Asha jadi bulan jua (I'll be a moon too)

Me: Mana buleh, pasal bulan satu saja (That cannot be, cos there is only one moon)

Asha: Buleh, pasal Babah bulan basar, Asha yang kacil (Caaaaan.. cos daddy becomes the full moon, and Asha can be the small one - shaping her hands like a crescent)

Me: Ok lah, kalau Babah jadi bintang? (OK, OK, if daddy becomes a star?)

Asha: Asha jadi 'love' (Asha can be a heart - shaping her hands like a heart)

Me: Kenapa jadi 'love'? (Why be a heart?)

Asha: Pasal, Mama sayang sama Asha (So, mummy loves Asha)

Asha, Babah and Mama loves you so much. You too Iman and Abang, we love you both so much. Well done on the exams!

Wassalam

Mr G

Words of wisdom to my dear son Muhammad

2010-11-20T07:07:00.000+08:00

BismilLaahirRahmaanirRahim

This morning, after his morning shower getting ready for school, Muhammad came sitting close to me while I was fiddling with my Mac.

I praised him for a job well done with his Ugama school (Religious school) for 2010, despite not being in top 3 (he finished 4th), his average was quite high at 95%. He was disappointed still of not being no 3, as he's got a prize for that last year.

He said "Dimana Muhammad buat salah Bah ah" (Where did I go wrong, Dad?), so I just said "OK sudah Muhammad tu, jangan tah ingau banar" (You've done well son, don't worry). The thing about Muhammad is, he is very competitive.

To cheer him up, I said he's been such a good boy all along, and I advised him only three things, which I said will help him succeed:

Don't forget the 5 times a day prayers - I told him if he do this, Allah will love him, protect him and keep him on the righteous path
Study well - He will have the knowledge to succeed, if he studies well
Be respectful to others - He will be respected, and the Angels will pray for him

This may not be a complete advise, and I am sure most of you would have better advises, but it sure brought the smile to his face - very much like this - as if he's got his candy after a long day of fasting.

Muhammad at 3, at the Empire Hotel. Not schooling yet, and notice the hair, never cut since he was shaved during Aqiqah at a week old

I love you Muhammad. You did well son.... now, we'll see the Primary school results :o

Wassalam

Mr G

Salam Aidil Adha from the G Family

2010-11-16T22:23:00.002+08:00

Assalamu 'Alaikum Warahmatullah

BismilLaahirRahmaanirRahim

We would like to wish all our friends Eid Mubarak or Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Adha. May Allah bless all our prayers and sacrifices, and forgives all our sins. Amin.

Let's glorify the night by reciting the Takbir... AllahuAkbar AllahuAkbar AllahuAkbar WalilLahilHamd

Wassalamualaikum,

Gembo

Iron Maiden! Winston S Churchill: We Shall Fight on the Beaches...

2010-11-16T06:58:00.001+08:00

Friends of mine are now eagerly awaiting Iron Maiden's concert in Singapore next year.

I was really into their music in my teens and bujang days, but have toned down a bit, not driven by Mrs G, but rather by the song requests of the kids during our daily commute.

Anyway, one of my favourite songs is Aces High, which opens with Sir Winston Churchill fine speech to prepare the Brits against Hitler's attack during World War II.

Reached out... beyond borders

2010-11-14T11:46:00.000+08:00

BismillaaHirrahmaaNirrahim

I once wrote about blogging to reach out? Well, my Gembo house blog had found me friends in Brunei (mainly friends at work) and beyond borders...

Will not write much about it, but as the saying goes, a picture is worth a thousand words, well here are a few thousands and some....

The Voguers from Singapore...

From left: Little Ms F, Little Aqil, Shoppermama, Mr G, Kak Pah, Nadh, Raf, Mrs G, Kak Moralle and Ms Pearl. Mrs knew about them from bloghopping esp.to Shoppermama's shopping tips and collections, and Nadh's witty posts and the Voguers spirit of togetherness in good and in sadness

The Kecik Family, Malaysian currently working in Brunei

Out of pure coincidence, the 'Not the kecik's dad' worked with my first cousins. How did we find out you asked? OK, look at the white mugs in front of them (pic above), those were extra door gifts to our wedding guests 10 years ago, and before the Keciks even knew about us, they have got a few from their employer (my cousins) to help with them settling down when they first arrived.... so when we served them hot drinks for Sungkai (Iftar) last year, they suddenly said, "Hey, we have some of this at home..." and then that's when the 'jejak kasih' unfolded heheh.... ok here's a closer shot of the mugs...

The mugs... (heheh Mug shots??)

The one with blue prints were given to my guests (we have separate receptions, prior to the bersanding), and the red prints were given away to my wife's guests

Red Mummy

Redmummy is a professional blogger, she had helped us in our recent travels, mainly to KL and our recent honeymoon to Paris/UK.

Safety Belt Really saves Lives

2010-11-12T13:47:00.000+08:00

Bismillaa Hirrahmaa Nirrahiim

Looking forward to the weekend? Be safe always...

Anyway, I'd like to share a video being used on the safety screens around our Company's entrance. Very funny but just proves to show that seatbelts do save lives.

$30 is not equal to $1.44!

2010-11-11T21:52:00.003+08:00

Bismillaa Hirrahmaa Nirrahiim

Raise your your hands if you are an accountant. Good. Now, I need your help.

You see, I am not an accountant, but my job requires me to charge others on a monthly basis for the services that they have received from us. That's fine with me, especially as I have a colleague to do the accounting - I like!

This fellow knows his stuff that he wouldn't have problem reconciling the account every month end, even though I made those charges heheh..... Until one day.... he had to be transferred temporarily to manage other section.

As a result, I have to do the monthly account reconciliation but thank goodness he was there if I need guidance.

Months had passed and all seems to be ok, referring to the handover notes everytime of course, with possibly a few more grey hairs every time the accounts have successfully been reconciled!

But today, I have spent $30 to find $1.44!

Well, I knew where the $1.44 came from but I spent $30 of my precious time to look for where should go... Oh, $30 is pro-rata of my pay... don't do the maths lah, my salary is just enough to live from hand to mouth :o

What I understand about economics is simple - you spend less to get more, correct? Well, at least that is the general idea where I work (Oil & Gas), no point building a $10M facility to extract $1M of gas! Correct?

So, it is not economical to spend $30 to look for $1.44, right?

Wrong! Accounting as I was told is somewhat different - the accounts have to be reconciled, debit/credit balanced, etc etc at any cost! But having spent well over an hour today looking for the hole to put the $1.44, I had to draw a line and stop the madness. I just couldn't do it any more and will have to concentrate on other 20 items on my to do list. I will need to get the expert forensic eyes of my colleague to look for that hole (FM, I hope you're reading this heheh - don't go on leave yet!)

On the way home for lunch following that futile attempts, my thoughts were with my other colleagues who had to do all these things,the balancing or reconciling thingy, but having said that, they are probably well equipped with proper trainings, bionic eyes, extra brain cells (and lots of patience) than I do.

Oh well..... $1.44.... please come to papa.... please!

Wassalam
Mr G

Ciggies? Or Rice? .... Your choice!

2010-11-11T12:41:00.000+08:00

Bismillaa Hirrahmaa Nirrahiim

Brunei has recently seen a tax hike on cigarettes from 1st November this year, to B$0.25 per stick - so what used to cost $3.10 a pack is now $7.60, and some are $8.50.

According to the Brunei Times the amendments were implemented in the interests of the health and well-being of the people, especially in helping to reduce the risk of chronic diseases related to smoking.

Interestingly, a colleague of mine overheard this conversation at a minimart recently, which just shows how effective the changes have been to peoples mindset:

Mr A: Berapa harga sigup Pirellys? (How much is a pack of Pirellys?)

Shopkeeper: $8.50

Mr A: Adih, mahalnya (Gosh! That's expensive)

Mr B (A Filipino bystander): Tidak guna bali lah boss, harga beras siam tu (You don't have to buy that Mr, that's as much as a pack of Siam Rice)

At the end, Mr A left without buying the cigarette.

You see, a pack of Siam Rice (10kg) can feed a family of 6 for more than 2 weeks, and that at 2 meals a day!

Questions now have to be asked, is it a necessity? Does it bring benefits? Thanks goodness I stopped ages ago :)

Wassalam
Mr G

Reaching Out... Blogs?

2010-11-10T17:54:00.000+08:00

Bismilla Hirrahmaa Nirrahim

I had to work from home yesterday, as my little Aaeeshah had a little bout with food poisoning and also to allow me counter the lack of sleep from her vomitting sessions on our bed the night before. Alhamdulillah she recovered today.

Anyway, despite not working, I couldn't turn down an appreciation lunch hosted by our supervisor (it's only a minute drive down the road from where I stay, and it's Italian, how can I turn that down?), for the good result in the annual feedback survey on how well the leaders treat the staffs, the company's benefits, where not only was our result better that other sections in the department, but also amongst peers throughout the company *clap-clap* well done to us...

Having said that, not one to rest on his laurels, the boss asked what can be done to improve things - apparently our weakest point was communication... 'Reaching Out' to our clients, all 4,000 of the company employees whom our section handled the salaries and pensions, and whose operating assets we insure...

He asked for suggestions? Well, we've got emails, web bulletins in place but the questions begged on how to improve further... We can send out tons of server clogging emails, yet if nobody cares to read them, then what? Web bulletins would be good, but they're bland..... So I suggested blogging - to reach out to 2/3rds of the the population eg Gen X and Y, with the downsides being 1) who would write the blog and 2) would it be sustainable?

Whilst enjoying my pasta, I recalled another department had (yes, had) a blog, yet last I checked a couple of weeks back, the last entry was in June and it was to welcome people to the department blog - that showed it is not even a question of sustainability but just to move forward is difficult enough...

So... question is, is blog the best way to reach out? who knows, but I knew my houseblog reached out and helped a few friends with their house plans, so I guess it depends on what is blogged about, right?

Like I said, I think a lot, so to anyone who cares to read my thoughts, thanks.

Wassalam,
Mr G

uh oh... important posts that I've missed!

2010-11-09T15:01:00.000+08:00

Guilty as charged! I guess that would be the verdict by The High Court of Blogging for me to miss out important posts ~ Birthday posts! and a special visit of an old friend (and well known cartoonist).

My birthday in May

Our hero Muhammad's 9th birthday at the end of May

My beloved wife's birthday in July

Special visit by Cuboi

Dusting the blog....

2010-11-09T14:19:00.001+08:00

Bismilla Hirrahmaa Nirrahim

Been quiet for a long while - last post I did was on Iman's birthday, and I have not written anything about the Gembo Hari Raya (including our Hari Raya to Kuching)... Not even any entry on our honeymoon trip to UK/Paris...

Could it be the my passion for photography and blogging has dwindled? I don't know, I am somehow too drained when I reach home from work.

Life has been very busy lately, very trying I have to say since the last few months.

Work has been great, enjoyed it enormously, although now stretched when my colleague (my right hand man) had to be moved temporarily to another section since July until end of this month... Look forward to have him back in my team for the busy December period! And Alhamdulillah I will switch to a new role by March 2011... watch this space.

Alhamdulillah, my wife and I have reached the 10 year wedding anniversary in August and InsyaAllah looking forward to more milestones, Amin.

Kids have been well, now in their exam week, but Aaeeshah had been unwell since the last two weeks. She was admitted to hospital couple of weeks back with high fever, and just this morning was diagnosed with mild food poisoning - yes, mild but she vomitted at midnight and at 4 in the morning that I am now suffering from the lack of sleep. Alhamdulillah however that I can bring her home and no overnight stay at the hospital although she will miss two days of her kindergarten exams :(

Aaeeshah at the Ward playground. Note the drip at her right hand

Will this entry spur me to start blogging again? I dunno, but I do hope so. My cameras are nicely kept in the cabinet, batteries charged and memory cards cleared but we'll see. Now.... that took me 25 minutes to write.... we'll see about it.

Wassalam,
Mr G

Alhamdulillah. Happy 7th Birthday Our Beloved Iman

2010-09-17T03:04:00.000+08:00

BismilLaa HirRahmaa NirRahiim

Today, 7 years ago we became a proud parents of a beautiful little girl, the first born girl in our family and the second child after Muhammad Abdurrahman. My dear wife gave her the beautiful name of Iman 'Aaliyah, from Arabic translated as "The Highest Most Exalted Faith".

My late mother was so proud to have a granddaughter, for it was no secret that she needed more girls in the family (my youngest sister is her only daughter after three sons!).

Alhamdulillah, Iman has grown up well and healthy, and Alhamdulillah is also doing well academically. Iman loved challenges and will try her best to overcome whatever comes her way, be it puzzles, games or homework. That's why I was not the least surprised when she actually completed a full month of fasting in the recent holy month of Ramadhan.

Iman,

Babah and Mama is so proud and happy for you, and on this auspicious day, we wish you a very happy birthday, we pray for Allah's continuous blessing upon you every day and every moment, and may you grow up to the beautiful name that we have proudly given you. Always remember that we love you so much, Sayang.

Love,

Babah, Mama, Abang Muhammad and Adik Aaeeshah.

This picture was taken few hours after you were born.

Grandma Babu loved your lips :-)

This picture was taken when you just turned 1.

You had Babah's cheeky smile (and chubbiness), and Mama's beautiful eyes.

This was taken when you were two. You've got that fashion sense,

got it from none other than Kaka Ateul.

Taken during your third birthday... no secret that you love pink...

... and also wanted to be princess. This was on your 4th birthday

This was taken when you were just 5. Short hair?

I still remember you begged Mama to have it cut at the saloon ;-)

Remember this? We celebrated your birthday on the first day of Hari Raya 2009....

And this last picture was taken just last week.

Happy birthday Sayang. We love you so much.

Wassalam,

Babah Gembo

What's your name?

2010-08-31T16:13:00.001+08:00

Bismillaa Hirrahmaa Nirrahiim

So, what's your name, or rather what's behind your name? Do you know the history or background to how you got that name?

I grew up with my grandparents, and only saw my parents in the weekends as they had to work in the capital. My Mama (grandmum) raised me and my brothers lovingly, and one thing I do remember about Mama was she loved to tell stories.

I still remember one story about my name... I was named Awangku Azmi Rizal by my parents. My grandad however wanted to name me 'Ulul 'Azmi, after an expression he found in the Al-Quran. If my parents were to have another boy (which they actually did) he would have suggested 'Ulul 'Amri for his name, but that is not the subject for this story now.

'Ulul 'Azmi literally means the chiefs, or people who have stout/strong hearts. However, in Al-Quran this title is accorded to only five Rasuls (prophets) for their perseverance and unusually strong commitment to Allah in the face of great suffering: Nuh, Ibrahim, Musa, Isa and lastly, our beloved Rasul Muhammad Sallallahu 'Alaihi Wassalam.

My parents were worried that if I were to be named 'Ulul 'Azmi I would be subjected to sneers, as the word 'Ulul rhymes with tahlol or bahlol (stupid).

So eventually it seemed my grandad and my dad had a compromise, as my grandad got to name me 'Azmi and my dad added Rizal at the end - why? His name is Abdul Razak, so he wanted to maintain the AR... both my brothers are AR too.

Anyway, 'Azmi on its own means Ambition and Rijal (from where Rizal is derived) is man... I concluded myself that my name 'Azmi Rizal mean a Man with Ambitions heheh.

Wassalam
Gembo @ 'Ulul Azmi

Indomie?

2010-08-31T15:46:00.000+08:00

Bismillaa Hirrahmaa Nirrahiim

I publish this sequel to my last post due to special request heheh...

Still wondering why Indomie? Well, Brunei is a small country, very small. As fate has it, my best friend Aji Emran's elder brother is married to my wife's elder sister.

During Hari Raya in her first year 1996/97, R (my wife) went back to Brunei for Eid/Hari Raya. On her way back to UK, Aji's mom asked R to bring a box of Indomie for Aji (Indomie was so expensive in UK then).

Anyway, as fate has it again, Aji was on a rare visit to my place one weekend (our cities are 6 hours train ride apart, hence the rareness). It was during this visit that he got a call from R to say that she's got his Indomie.

Remember in my last post that R and I were good friends (oh, we still are).... so I thought why don't I tag along with Aji to pick up the Indomie, at least I get to see my good friend R whom I haven't met for a while, and furthermore, it was Hari Raya so more excuse for me to visit her.

I can still remember the tingling I felt in my chest, probably my heart was beating so hard when I first saw her again.

From then on, I took many excuses to visit her (even before I have the guts to express my true feelings for her). The Indomie episode was in February '97, and only expressed my true love to her in June '97.
Four months!

Anyway, as it was my final year and her 1st year, so we spent the next year on a long distance relationship.

Alhamdulillah, our patience and perseverance paid off, and in a couple of years after that I had to conjure all the strengths in the world again, to ask three ladies for me to tie the knot with R... my late Mama (grandmum), my late Babu (mum) and of course my dear R.

We're engaged on the 27.2.2000 and solemnised our marriage on 25.8.2000. Alhamdulillah.

Wassalam,
Gembo

Ten years. 25.8.2000

2010-08-26T06:36:00.000+08:00

Bismilla Hirrahma Nirrahim

Alhamdulillah, Praise to Allah, Whom have granted us with health, wealth, patience and wisdom, that my wife (R) and I have today come to a milestone in our lives, celebrating our 10 years wedding anniversary.

We've come a long way. My wife and I were classmates in From 3 to From 5 (1988-90), we then went on to study at the Sixth Form College (1991-92), upon which we went separate ways - she went straight to work with Brunei Shell and I got a scholarship to UK.

I have been attracted to her since in Form 3, but never had the guts to pursue further. Even in Form 6. It goes without saying that we were good friends, we helped each other with studies but I never had the guts to express my feelings for her.

But Allah is Al-'Alim (The All Knowing), I met her again during my final year in the UK when she was sent by the company to further her studies. Thanks also to my best friend Aji Emran and a box of Indomie.

And then as they say, it's history. R and I tied the knot 3 years later, and we have since been blessed with a boy, Muhammad and two girls Iman and 'Aaeeshah. Alhamdulillah.

I continuously pray that Allah grants us patience and wisdom to see us through to eternity, till death do us part.

Wassalam,
Mr G

Vindicated and Perseverance

2010-08-20T06:46:00.001+08:00

The words of the week for me, and hoping for a closure to a challenging year (or two). I believe there will be light at the end of the tunnel and I know somebody tried his best to light it up for me. Thanks E.

InsyaAllah.

Wassalam
G

Al-Quran - How lucky we are, Alhamdulillah

2010-08-20T06:42:00.000+08:00

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullah

Alhamdulillah, Allah have blessed me with another Ramadhan, the holy month which strangely enough, over the years I have been able to complete recitation of our holy book Al-Quran, which I couldn't even do in the other 11 months. For the last 11 months, I have only read less than 3 out of 30 Juz' of Al-Quran.

Anyway, after Subuh prayers at our local masjid this morning, I took one of the wakaf (donated) Al-Quran and sat with my back to one of the masjid pillars (my usual spot for the past 10 years!).

Getting ready to read, I had a look at the cover and saw a price tag of $8.90. I immediately thought: How lucky we are, at this day and age, 1400 years after the revelation of Al-Quran that we are able to read Al-Quran, for a measly effort - each household would have at least a copy (I really hope so), every masjid has one or you can get it easily at the muslim bookstores. Just pick it up, Bismallah and you can read it.

Suddenly my mind travelled back to the infancy days of Islam, shortly after the passing of our beloved Rasul Muhammad Salallahu 'Alaihiwassalam. 70 Al-Hafiz (Al-Quran memorisers) died as martyrs in the Battle of Yamamah, between Muslim followers of Khalifah Abu Bakar against the Murtads (those who left the Islamic faith).

This loss was seriously felt by the Sahabah (companions of Muhammad Salallahu 'Alaihiwassalam.) who were concerned that more of the Al-Hafiz will fall in battles, that they should put the Al-Quran together otherwise it'll be gone just like that.

It was not until the third Khalifah, 'Uthman bin Affan that the Al-Quran became systematically organised into the 30 Juza - of which more details can be read from here.

Bismilla Hirrahmaa Nirrahim. Alhamdulilla Hirabbil 'Aalamin.

Wasalam
G

Salam Ramadhan

2010-08-12T04:48:00.000+08:00

Assalamualaikum Warahmatullah

Here's wishing all my families and friends a happy and blessed Ramadhan, may Allah grant us the strength to overcome the challenges of completing our fast, not just from thirst and hunger, but from all other elements.

I hope the 'Highway Code' below can guide us.

Wassalam,

Mr G

Where have the days gone?

2010-08-04T17:37:00.000+08:00

Looking at the date today I realised that it has been exactly a month since we left home for our holiday, coming home back barely 2 weeks later.

Recalling my boss' comment to a colleague yesterday (he was on leave the same time as I was), "Work is very hectic and our holiday was a distant memory"He couldn't be more accurate, indeed it was a distant memory, squeezed down by the bulk of work being accumulated in my absence.

Anyway, this blog has sadly taken the lowest priority in my life and not given the attention it deserved, more backlog it seems. I just hope, sincerely hope, to be able to share the photos of our travels during the last 2 months.....

..... and quietly praying that my leave in September will come soon...er.

Oh, before I sign off, just to share... We went to see quite a famous lady during my holiday

Wassalam,
G

A change....

2010-07-04T07:26:00.000+08:00

Life is full of surprises...

I woke up early this morning, as my little Gaga (Dk Izzan Aaeeshah Lady Gaga Taylor Swift Kelly Clarkson Sponge Bob heheh) woke me up cos she don't want to wake up alone. So there I was awake but she just suddenly went straight to sleep. Mmmmph, you little Gaga you!

Well, at least I get to do my Subuh prayers. Following that I saw an FB message on my ~~iPad~~ iPhone from a friend asking for pics from a recent hop across the pond, and decided ... yeah, why don't I start blogging about the overdue posts - since I am on leave now,

Surprise surprise, somehow Blogger.com now have a very easy hands-on blog template update, which I thought why not - lets see if I can get a nice template to replace the somewhat gloomy background. My previous blog template was changed in July last year, and it had a black background - reflecting back 2009 was quite a challenging year particularly in the first half, personally and professionally, but all that is past now. We learn from the past. And always be positive (we can try).

Anyway, yes, I thought why not and changed to a fresh yellow theme. I liked it. I hope it is pleasant to your eyes too.

Change is good. For the better.

Salam, G.

My surprise birthday...

2010-07-04T07:05:00.000+08:00

Before you begin to wish me, this is actually 8 weeks ago, 6th May to be precised... like I said earlier I have LOTS of overdue posts hehehe... Well, I'll just make it short but would like to thank my only sister Leeja for the surprise, she couldn't decide between Japanese and Kebab, so she bought both and along with that a very nicely decorated cake

I am actually on leave for 2 weeks now, going back to the place which actually started a series of memorable and life changing events. With what time I have available, I will try to catch up on the Overdue posts

Cards from Gembo Juniors

Thanks Leeja for the cake!

Sushi and London Kebab (Doner... yummy!!)

Thanksgiving Du'a for Allah's blessing

Wonder if they are excited to celebrate daddy's birthday

or to get to enjoy the cake :-)

Till next post...

Overdues...

2010-07-02T06:32:00.001+08:00

Apparently I have a few followers who are keen to see the blog updates i.e. officemates, families and friends from across the pond.

There have been many occasions that deserved to be blogged about but it is always the case of burnt out following the hectic day job - even the weekends or a week holiday to Singapore couldn't cure it.

My work involved strict datelines, and the dateline has been met yesterday, Alhamdulillah. For all the hard work, it was good to receive congratulatory comments from your boss's boss "excellent piece of work, Pengiran" in true dutch accent, and as I saw my past 6 months - it was my best half year so far. There are certain quarters however that only looked at the negatives (and for some reason blind to the good achievements) and despite all my efforts to ignore their comments, I let my guard down this time and listened - it really hurt my morale. As I said I work with strict datelines, and despite the work involve steer/decisions from others, I am the one who got the bad name when we close in the deal so close to dateline.

Anyway, that's me venting....

My post was originally to tell my somewhat, loyal followers, that I have a few main posts overdue:

- Muhammad's birthday
- Our trip to Singapore
   - Visit to a friend's family home (with a sleeping ogre hehe)
   - Singapore Zoo trip
   - Universal Studio Trip
   - Dinner with the Voguers at our favourite spot Chai Chee
   - Measuring the Orchard Road
- A new addition, my new baby....... a Tamron lens (heheh, what were you thinking?)

The photos for the above are still fresh from the memory card, and I guess the next few weeks you will be able to see the pics and the post.

Salam All

ps. It could end up with Argentina/Brazil finals... we'll start tonight!

Gullible??

2010-06-28T00:50:00.000+08:00

OK, England lost and so the dream continues.... but that is not what I am going to write now.

I have recently received an email from a friend, which contained a letter from a consumer group saying that a popular foodstuff contains lard (pig fat).

I don't know what is the intention of the originator of the email, but I do know my friend sent it with good intentions. But I have always been weary of this kind of emails, and true enough the official website from the authority in a neighbouring country stated that following their analysis, the alleged ingredient was non-existent.

I just hope that people do keep an open mind without any prejudice, until anything is proven.

The above is just one example how rumours can easily influence people with one track mind - they will only believe what they want to.

I've learned (and continue learning) from the wise and learned among my families and colleagues that there is just so much that you can do - don't fish for them, give them the rod instead. We are all born with this thing in our head called a brain - so use it wisely. Think. Don't be gullible.

Salam

Storm is Coming?

2010-06-10T08:02:00.000+08:00

The family had just came back from a vacation to a land 'Far, Far Away' where Dinosaurs once ruled the land, and Mummies cursed anyone trying to lay hands on their treasures. We flew on the back of a dragon, and searched for treasures within the walls of Imhotep resting place. We met Frankenstein, a well known green ogre and Charlie Chaplin is actually still alive!

We also went to a place with HUGE collections of animals, and saw a cheeky Carlos the sea lion and took pictures with parrots.

Not forgetting the big 'O'.... for Orchard road.

Will post more pics on that above but this caught my eyes when I downloaded this morning, and am happy to share.

You'll miss it when its gone. Don't wait.

2010-04-25T23:54:00.003+08:00

I love to look out from our bedroom every morning, admiring the beautiful skylight before sunrise. Every morning. The beautiful amber coloured clouds highlighted by rays of the yet-to-rise sun.

Sadly, I will not be able to enjoy it for long. See, the land behind our house is now undergoing development. Four storey development and will dwarf our 2 storey house.

I'll give it another 6 months or a year tops when my view will be blocked. Until that happens, I will continue what I do - Enjoy the morning skylight and sunlight to the fullest.

It's the same with life - the people you love - you'll miss them when they're gone.

Don't wait, show them how much you love and appreciate them.

Salam, and until then.

A United Family.... well, almost

2010-04-25T18:39:00.001+08:00

For the past few weekends, I have been fortunate enough that live football matches involving my team - Manchester United - were shown conveniently during dinner time on Saturday night.

So convenient that we took the opportunity to host dinner whilst waiting for the game.... correction, POT LUCK dinner - as we are still maidless for exactly 3 months yesterday.

The match two weeks ago was forgettable - as we lost at home to Chelsea, our main contender for the Premier League championship. Suddenly the satay, the roti jons, the pasta that we had then felt like thorn in my throat. What more with my Abang in the crowd, rubbing salt to our already painful wound - more on him later, the unfortunate-one-to-support-other-than-United in our family.

Abang - Spurs supporter - so happy that Chelsea won against United....

much to the anger of the crowd!!!

The match last week at Manchester City was so memorable as the match against Chelsea was forgettable. We didn't host dinner, so ended up watching the game in our bedroom. The game was so open, just like a Cup final, and with only 30 seconds to spare and score tied at 0-0, the old boy Scholes scored with a header out of nowhere to win the game! I danced and ran in circles in our room, much to the shock of our 3 children - my dear wife had to explain to the kids why their dad was going gaga hahaha.

And for the match last night against Spurs, we'd decided to have another pot luck dinner as our Abang is a long-time Spurs supporter. As promised, more on him - we grew up with our grandparents and our granddad loved watching Big League Soccer. Somehow in the late 70s and in the 80s, Abang was mesmerised by the magical skills of Spurs superstars like Ardilles, Villa, Hoddle and Waddle, and supported them since, despite not winning many trophy, unlike of course, Manchester United. Ehem. Excuse me for gloating. Again.

Anyway, for the match last night especially the first half, I couldn't taste the chicken biryani - not that it didn't taste good, it was (excuse me, again, heheh) but we're held 0-0 by Spurs and Abang gloated so much that the doughnuts and ice cream for desserts during half time tasted like sand.

Suddenly, in the second half United was awarded a penalty and Giggsy, an OAP player scored from the spot (Old Age Pensioner heheh) - Abang suddenly went quiet only to return to his oldself when Spurs scored to level it up. Then Abang was silenced throughout as Nani scored a cheeky well taken lob to bring United 2-1, and again another penalty, finished by Giggsy to finish the game 3-1.

But Abang was such a sport (he's got no choice being in the crowd of red last night), that he stayed back after the game and take in the 'abuses' hehehhe. It was all part of the game, to 'abuse' or be 'abused'.... Why abuse in quotes? This is what we call football banter and it is especially fun when you won. Just like last night.

Till then.

From the match last night, My dad on the right is also a United fan. Unfortunately my little bro

(no pun intended Yoi hehhe) couldn't join us. That little United supporter is my cousin's son

and he's so adorable!

I will survive

2010-03-12T05:27:00.000+08:00

Picture was taken during a boat trip along Belait river in 2008.

The coconut tree defies convention, fought against nature's gravity and looked like it has won. We can learn from nature.

Take my hand

2010-03-10T22:56:00.000+08:00

Modern Day 'Padian'

2010-03-09T17:59:00.001+08:00

Padian are traditional icon of Brunei's Kampong Ayer (the renowned water village), they are lady vendors in small boats or sampan, selling mainly fishes and vegetable from house to house.

Padian is non-existence today, I haven't seen one myself ever, but please visit my friend's HRS Malek take on Padian which is more accurate depiction of Padian.

Opportunity Seized!

2010-03-08T01:04:00.002+08:00

Living on a prayer...

2010-03-03T20:46:00.002+08:00

Asah Mata

2010-03-02T00:18:00.000+08:00

Salam All

It has been a while this blog hasn't been updated. When you have to juggle more balls than you can handle, some will have to be put down. For me the blog, FB and even my camera were the balls I had to put down - no pun intended :)

As a result, the photography interests waned until recently, when a friend invited me to join the ASAH MATA Photography workshop. Asah Mata is Malay for 'Sharpening Eyes'

The workshop was organised by Candidsyndrome, the professional photographers for HM The Sultan daughter's wedding in 2007 and the speakers were Ahim Rani and Saiful Nang, Principal Photographers from Candidsyndrome Brunei and Candidsyndrome Malaysia respectively. The workshop was for 2 days from 27 Feb.

Cutting long story short, we spent the first day understanding the wedding photographer's pricing guide (not for me... yet), photo essay, the art of seeing (perspective shots, lines, point of interest etc) and a preview of PhotoCamp. The second day was for all participants to go out in groups of at least 3 for a particular assignment, of which for us in Group 3 was 'Brunei is Beautiful - Bandar Seri Begawan'. The idea is to pick the best 12 photos from the Group to be made into a photo essay. Our 12 best are in my FB, which you can see HERE. The photo essays were then reviewed in front the 60 participants and criticised in the open.

Personally it was a challenge, the 'Art of Seeing' really pushed my limits, on how to see things differently and capture the final photo as work of art.... below are my ART... after I sharpen my eyes from the blue hour of the morning until the sun pierced my candidsyndrome t-shirt at 10. I shot a total of 450 photos, of which 40 were worthy to be kept, and drilled down to 13 to be selected and asked my FB friends to help choose (see HERE). At the end the following 4 ended up in he Group 3 photo essay.

So, what's next for me? I don't know how long I will put down the balls again, but looks like I need to continue sharpen my eyes, so as not to waste such good learnings from Saiful and Ahim. Thanks Guys for the lessons. Special thanks to Mrs G and G-kids for putting up with Babah's absence during the long weekend. Enjoy the photos!

Art of seeing: Lines

Temple in the capital - view from top

Art of Seeing: Borders and Subject

Masjid Sultan Omar 'Ali Saifuddin

Art of Seeing: Moments

A man in Brunei traditional dress helping an elderly

at the Yayasan boat landing

Art of seeing: Movements

Hustle and Bustle in the capital..... NOT

Asha is 4 @ St James's School

2010-01-19T00:42:00.001+08:00

Aaeeshah finally got her wish of having her birthday celebration at school, last Saturday, 5 days after her actual birthday.

Aaeeshah always finds it hard to smile heheh

She chose the cake and sticker - its strawberry icecream cake with Princess Friends stickers

Cutting the cake with daddy

This is their school now, at least for the rest of their primary years

Muhammad with new friends at the canteen and his best buddy next to him (they came from the same school - Kindycare)

And this is Iman with her new friend - they always spend breaktime together

Aaeeshah with her gifts

.... and opening them

... and again trying hard to smile. That is our little girl Aaeeshah.

Asha is 4

2010-01-12T00:28:00.000+08:00

Alhamdulillah, 2010 started well for us: Aaeeshah started schooling in kindergarten (and not a single tear, unlike the elder brother and sister when they started), and Muhammad and Iman getting along well with new school environment (moved to St James's school from Kindycare school), and yours truly and the missus only started work today!

Oh, back to the heading, our youngest daughter Dayangku Izzan 'Aaeeshah @ Asha, celebrated her 4th birthday today, in a low key last minute preparation as she initially wanted to have it at school this weekend (which is still going ahead despite e just have it tonight! that cheeky girl). Photos can be seen here.

Remembering back 4 years ago which doesn't feel that long ago, it was such an eventful day. Our second child Iman was admitted to the hospital for diarrhea in the early hours that I missed out on Solat Hari Raya Haji, and by noon the same day my dear wife was admitted to the hospital as her stomach pain initially thought as similar symptom as Iman's, was actually contractions, signs of Aaeeshah ready to see the world. So by early evening I have all three girls in my life in the same hospital! Oh, did I mention Asha was born on Hari Raya Haji @ Aidil Adha? It was blessing for our family.

I hope this entry will kickstart my interest in updating my blog... I seriously do.

Thank you all for visiting my site and here's wishing a belated Happy New Year 2010 to you all!

Salam. . . . G-Me / Gembo

Bye Bye Pa

2009-12-20T18:06:00.000+08:00

On Saturday night (19.12), Bapa and Makcik left for UK, to accompany Makcik's sister and kids to join the husband currently studying in Liverpool, UK. It's been 12 years since Bapa went to UK, for my graduation. Meanwhile, the trip will be a first for Makcik and the sister/nieces, and I do wish them well (and warmth) as understood it's going to be snowy for some, if not all, parts of UK.

Pictures here are taken at the airport. Go to my facebook album for more.

Selamat jalan Bapa

The travelling party

The kids with their Bapa

Muhammad with his uncle & Nenek Kampong

Slightly emotional moment for my little sister.

Salam Aidil Adha

2009-11-28T05:23:00.000+08:00

Here's wishing all my families, friends and colleagues, and all Muslims Salam Aidil Adha... May Allah bless our lives and accept the sacrifices we make, the solat we performed and the du'a we offered.

Kindycare Graduation: Muhammad and Iman's farewell

2009-11-24T06:31:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, the kids' school held their final year performance, including the convocation for the kindergarten class graduation into Year 1. Both our kids joined the dancing performances for their classes, and Iman also graduated to Year 1. Enjoy the pics below, and as usual for more pics, please visit my facebook album.

Iman with her scroll.... umm, frame.

Aaeeshah can make friends easily. I hope there won't be a problem when she starts her kindergarten next year.

Iman part of the kindergarten classes welcoming song

Muhammad dancing with his best friend, and on the right as a sailor on Nakhoda Manis' ship. Nakhoda Manis is a local legend, in the same line as Malin Kundang in Indonesia and Si Tanggang of Malaysia.

Here Muhammad is doing the shuffle dance with his crew

As the school doesn't have any male teachers, they had invited me (Deputy Chairman of Parent Teacher Association) to accompany the special guests to give away the prizes.... the special guest is on the right, now I think I must be overdressed for the occasion!

This boy is brilliant. He can speak fluent English and not afraid to stand in front of the big crowd. And he's got a twin and throughout the two years in kindergarten he and the brother shared the top two spots in the class.

Al the students and the kids and their teachers sang the final song, Heal the World.

We're proud of you, son!

2009-11-17T06:05:00.000+08:00

Our son, Muhammad Abdurrahman did us proud by getting no 3 in his final year primary 1 ugama exam. More importantly his total average increase from 86% in Mid Year to 91%.

Certainly his efforts (and ours too!) paid off. Didoakan Allah sentiasa memberikan kasih sayang, perlindungan rahmatNya kepada Muhammad Abdurrahman & adik-adik, semoga berjaya dalam pelajaran dan menempuh arus kehidupan. Amin

Family Outing at Labi @ 7th November 2009

2009-11-10T20:58:00.000+08:00

Last weekend, I brought my family for a unique outing, local fruit picking in Labi. It was a fruit orchard, about 2 acres in Kampung Labi, owned by my wife's brother in law's grandma. The place is quiet, calm and the air was very clean.

The experience was an eye opener for me, my wife and especially our kids, as only then we got to know how durian and membangan trees look like, and how beautiful the durian flowers are.

We set out from home at quarter past 6, arriving in Labi at half seven. Labi is located 43km inland from Kampung Sungai Liang, itself about 40km from our hometown Kuala Belait.

The drive to Sungai Liang is quite fast, a combination of flat and straight single and dual carriageways, however the drive from Sungai Liang to Labi involve lots of twisty roads overlooking steep slopes! It was personally a nostalgic drive though, as I used to frequent this route when I was young up to my early teens, as my grandad whom I grew up with, frequently drove up to meet up with his brother in Rampayoh, not far from Labi.

I do hope you enjoy the pics here, and for more photos, you can visit my facebook album.

Labi is 43km from Sungai Liang, and 11km further down the road would have led us to the Bukit Teraja, one of the highest points in Brunei

We first stop at a Rambutan orchard owned by my mother in law's friend.

This is what the locals would call tibadak or in standard Malay, cempedak. I didn't know the fruits grow like this, on the tree trunks

Tibadak fruits on the left. On the right is my wife's brother in law and his mom hugging the tibadak tree. The orchard belongs to her mom, who kindly let us pick the fruits there for free.

On the left is the durian flowers, and on the right is the durian right after it dropped from the tree. All we have to do is stand away from the tree and wait for the 'thud' sound.

the durian flower up close.... nice isn't it. On the right, my wife with our first durian hehe

the durians and the flowers

This is duku fruit, the size is larger than lime but smaller than mandarin oranges. Apparently it is the same family as langsat

Speaking of which, my maid on the left pic climbing up the langsat tree to pick the langsat. She climbed quite high, as she can't even be seen on the photo on the right.

Those rare occasion yours truly stands in front of the lens.

Kids really loving it, picking up the langsat plucked by my maid, and on the right is my makeshift basket

langsat up close

Now this is tampoi

This here is membangan, some say a family of mango. The flesh is so fibrous and sour.

Taking a break, picnic with the kids at the back of my dad's pick up. It is convenient, and has enough storage for our takings... some of which are shown below

On the drive home, we drove slowly enjoying the kampong view.

The house here was built with the assistance of Pusat Dakwah Islamiyah (Islamic Congregation Centre)

This house belongs to the son of the orchard owner whom we visited earlier. He was the former Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, a very powerful position but yet a very quiet and humble person

And this is his fruit stall.

On the left is a multi purpose hall and the right is the fire station

A nice scenery... pity there wasn't enough space on the road shoulder, else I could have taken more pictures (this was taken by my wife whilst I drove)

Two of the few sawmills along the road to Labi

On the left is a landslide on the hill side, whilst the right photo shows the winding road

One of the many fruit stalls along the road, and on the right, damaged road and eeriely looking down a cliff

One of the places I'd like to bring my family to again, the Luagan Lalak or Lalak lake.

BSRC Berhari Raya 2009 @ 30 Oct 2009

2009-11-03T23:07:00.002+08:00

The social sports / recreational / cultural activities club of Brunei Shell Petroleum, the Brunei Shell Recreational Club (BSRC) recently hosted the Hari Raya celebrations for its members.

A fine array of performances led by local comedians, Kumpulan 69 (Pacik and Beracun) as the MC, local duo performer The Seeds, an indonesian singer Adinda Kartika Dewi together with her acoustic band Asean Groove, a local versatile singer Pei-pei as well as Mime dancing were the order of the evening.

On the food front, the guests were served with typical hari raya dishes such as kelupis paired with chicken curry, mee goreng with fried chicken, mee soto, kebab and satay.

The pictures taken here are part of my contribution as a member of the BSRC as well as committee of BSRC Photography Section. I hope you enjoy the photos, but if you'd love to see more, please visit the links here and here.

The President of BSRC with his welcoming speech

The MC's for the evening.... Pacik (with white hat) and Beracun, the Kumpulan 69

The hari raya 'guests' cum performers

From left: The Seeds, Adinda Dewi Kartika, Hairee and Pei-pei (please correct me if I am wrong)

A great medley of mime performances.... top marks to you guys!

The Seeds performing acoustic number. On the right is Asean Groove, performing 'Human Nature'

Pei pei performing 'Anak Singkong' accompanied by Beracun

The event finale was a grand fireworks display.

Kids dental class

2009-10-31T07:10:00.002+08:00

I took the last Friday afternoon off, to bring all my three children to our Company's Health Centre 'Dental Class'. There were about a dozen children participating, and they showed slides, used models of huge toothbrush and teeth set to teach on how to take good dental care.

I also learnt a lot, especially how to gently brush my teeth - previously I will wear out the toothbrush within a month, as in my mind, the plaque really needs a good strong brushing to take off... how wrong I was. And I would put the paste all over the bristles, just like they showed on TV....apparently all you need is just a pea-size. Commercials can be misleading, huh!

Anyway, kids enjoyed it and I get first hand impression of how Muhammad is in class, very eager to answer questions from the presenter. One funny one was - what should you look for in a toothpaste?. Muhammad answered - CAP HALAL! It was hilarious! We taught him well...

Enjoy.

The dental staff showing how to scrub brush the teeth

The kids gargled with a special dye, which can show which part of the teeth that were not brushed properly....

The dye will stick to the plaques, which wasn't brushed away properly

Really glad that my kids enjoyed this.

Project One Click One Pic @ 24 October 2009

2009-10-30T00:14:00.000+08:00

Last Saturday, I participated in the "Project One Click One Pic", the World's Largest Photography Project Ever undertaken, where in a single moment in time people from all over the world will simultaneously take a photo capturing the earth as it was on the 24th of October 2009 at 8.00am Queensland Australia time(GMT +10.00).

This is my contribution, out of possibly a dozen taken during that one minute once the clock chimed 6.

Shadows of 69

2009-10-29T23:28:00.000+08:00

As part of the BSRC Photography Section committee, I joined the team for the rehearsal tonight for the event tomorrow.... Hari Raya event. I know. Its Dzulqaedah, no longer Syawal, but it's just that during Syawal nobody is around possibly to do this event.

Anyway, I can sense tomorrow's event will be a success based on the rehearsal.... miles better than last year's. Good luck for tomorrow.

Here's a nice shadow pic of the MCs for tomorrow, Kumpulan 69 Beracun (i think). They are HILARIOUS!

4 legs and a ball

2009-10-28T19:22:00.002+08:00

My thinking girl

2009-10-28T18:16:00.002+08:00

Weekend at the Empire

2009-10-28T06:09:00.001+08:00

Last weekend, my wife and I decided to make full use of the reward voucher that I had, to surprise our children for a weekend stay at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

I got the voucher back in July, for helping out the team to resolve issues. Put it simply, it involved numerous trips to Bandar, not mentioning table bangings but also good food!

Anyway, to put it to full use, we offered the stay previously as carrots to Muhammad and Iman to complete their 30 day fast in the holy month of Ramadhan. Muhammad completed but Iman had to stop for a week to take her antibiotics.

Muhammad and Iman had frequented this place with us, with Muhammad the most with 8 and Iman possibly 5, but this was Aaeeshah's 1st, which she thoroughly enjoyed, showing by her insistence to stay in the water as well as running through the long marble and thick carpet adorned hallways.

Will I stay here again? Perhaps, although there need to be a serious improvement on the check in services.... I confirmed booking on Saturday (repeated it three times over the phone, Saturday and 24 October), only to be told I was booked for Thursday 22 October; then I have to be put on queue for 30 minutes (it wasn't even busy) and they gave us a room facing an alley, warm aircon, smoking floor (my mistake, I didn't specify though) and quite a walk from the lift. Thanks to my dear wife, she insisted to the front desk that we get a room with working aircons and close to the lift. Thank goodness that the supervisor saw our records and noted that in the past we always asked for rooms near the lift.

So, again I ask myself, will I stay here again. Yes. A definite yes. Of course at BND250 (for main building room) it is more expensive than some hotels in the neighbouring countries, at least to me and the family, for this trip we can just stay or a day or two and relax, without the hassles of flying.

Enough of me babbling, and do enjoy the photos below.

My kids, they were all surprised! My wife and I got kisses and hugs. We love you too kids.

From left, Izzan 'Aaeeshah, Iman 'Aaliyah and Muhammad 'Abdurrahman

Each with their own poses

Having fun with Aaeeshah... the rare occasion I came in front of the lens

The hotel electric cart got hijacked !

In the room . . . Aaeeshah with her signature grin and Iman getting cosy in bed with daddy.

Below are the pics of my kids amidst the beautiful scenes and architectures of the famed The Empire Hotel

The Thirty Seconds Quiz ~ Great Lesson

2009-10-27T20:04:00.000+08:00

I got the following via email. Very interesting as it is so true... the teachers, the friends, special people, people I love spending time with

The Thirty Second Quiz                         Author Unknown

Don't bother getting a pen and paper... just read... if you can't answer them, just keep going.
1. Name the five wealthiest people in the world.
2. Name the last five Heisman trophy winners.
3. Name the last five winners of the Miss America contest.
4. Name ten people who have won the Nobel or Pulitzer prize.
5. Name the last five Academy Award winners for Best Actor and Actress.

How did you do? The point is, none of us remembers the headliners of yesterday. These are no second-rate achievers. They're the best in their fields. But the applause dies. Awards tarnish. Achievements are forgotten. Accolades and certificates are buried with their owners. Now here's another quiz. See how you do on this one:

1. Name three teachers who aided your journey through school.
2. Name three friends who helped you through a difficult time.
3. Name five people who have taught you something worthwhile.
4. Think of a few people who have made you feel appreciated and special.
5. Think of five people you enjoy spending time with.

Easier? The lesson?   The people who make a difference in your life aren't the ones with the most credentials, the most money, or the most awards. They're the ones who care and make a difference!

Chung Ching School Seria 71st Anniversary

2009-10-19T21:01:00.009+08:00

When the opportunity to work with a prominent photographer came up, I wasted no time to accept (ok, I took a couple of days check if there is any function with the family :)). He was invited by Chung Ching Middle School in Seria to cover the school's 71st Anniversary dinner event, and invited Gavin Goh, Husini Bakar and myself to come along.

The night event, a mixed of dimmed lights as well as colourful spot lights, plus the dancing movements demanded a lot from our equipment. I am lucky my best buddy loaned me his Tamron 17-50 f/2.8 lens, it is a superb lens, very sharp and at f/2.8, is fit for this occasion.

We learnt a lot from the sifu, and I hope to get more opportunities to learn from him.

Enjoy the pics. For some more, please visit my facebook album

sifu n sifee? (mentor n mentee)

offerings

silky fingers

emotion

what was that?

Jump!

Run!

Excited

food!

The mime performance lit only by UV light was very nice, especially with background song of "What a wonderful world" by Louis Armstrong

These little girls wanted to give the little flowers to their friends (or was it teachers) performing on stage

This standing chinese uncle tried to chat in chinese with me. Do I look less Malay and more chinese? or the fact that it is a chinese school event hehe?

Gavin in action

Home Renovation

2009-10-19T20:46:00.003+08:00

I don't suppose it is just us humans who would like to renovate the home. Growing up I always like to think that this is crabs way to renovate their home. I love the details of the tracks left by the rolls of sands in this picture

Holy Excitement

2009-10-16T23:52:00.003+08:00

Aaeeshah is always excited whenever she gets the chance to pray together with us.

Father and Son

2009-10-16T00:17:00.003+08:00

BSP Finance Beach Cleaning Campaign

2009-10-15T23:32:00.005+08:00

As part of Brunei Shell Finance Department's HSSE (Health Safety Security and Environment) monthly activity, the team has arranged for a Beach Cleaning campaign near the Billionth Barrel monument in Seria today.

It has been a couple of years since we have done the beach cleaning, and it was great to be back, to offer what little we could to help keep the environment clean. Still it saddens to see how people can be so ignorant and opted to just chuck their rubbish (plastic bags, bottles, drinks) anywhere they like, instead of bringing it back and dispose properly. Less they know that if they continue such attitude, they won't be able to enjoy the nice clean beach for long.

Here are some of the pictures during the event , but you can view at my facebook for more.

The nice long walkway leading to the Billionth Barrel monument

The monument as viewed from the beach

Plaque commemorating the 75th Anniversary of Oil and Gas industry in Brunei

Some of the BSP Finance team who made it to the event

These things intrigued me. Apparently they are metal stubs... initially I thought it is one of those things you would associate with superstitious activities

The beach looks clean, but when we walk along we found lots of rubbish almost hidden under the sand.

Team lead for the day, proudly wearing the HSSE shirt

The team in full force

Marc showing his lifting prowess..... safety first, bend at your knees, not your back!

Din working tirelessly

The ladies with youngest participant

HM Sultan visits Brunei Shell for its 80th Anniversary

2009-10-01T00:46:00.004+08:00

His Majesty The Sultan of Brunei, Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah kindly graced the event to mark the 80th Anniversary of the establishment of the Brunei Shell Petroleum. His Majesty flew in his glorious Blackhawk to the helipad separating BSP office and the sea, and drove in his ever trusty ML55 AMG to the BSP main entrance, and warmly welcomed by excited subjects and expats alike. It was a thrilling event, as the last visit was somewhat 7 or 8 years ago on a surprise visit.

Oil was first discovered in Brunei in 1929 by Shell, in what is now Seria Town. 80 years on, Brunei Shell Petroleum, a joint venture company between Brunei Government and Royal Dutch Shell continued on that success, facing new challenges as demand for energy grows whilst resources continue to become more difficult to extract.

Enjoy the pics below, or visit my facebook for more.

Top ten mean things said during Hari Raya! DON'T!

2009-09-25T14:16:00.007+08:00

The following are gathered in our visits to 'relatives' during Hari Raya. The comments are MEAN, and if any of you thought it is funny to be said to friends/relatives or any human being for God sake, they're NOT.

These were not directed to me or Mrs G, but it sure does beg a question - what is the meaning of wishes "Selamat Hari Raya, Maaf Zahir Batin"? As a means to apologise or licence to bitch?

1) Napa ko alum kawin lagi kan? (Why are you not married yet?). - SO? What's your problem?they're not burdening you, are they!

2) Napa ko alum keraja lagi? (Why are you not working yet?) - see above

3) Eh balum ada anak lagi? (Eh! No children yet?) - yeah, like you have a barn of kids?!

4) Gamuk jua ko! (You're so fat!) - Are you feeding him/her?

5) Kurus jua ko! (You're so skinny!) - Will you be feeding him/her then?

6) Adimu pulang dulu kawin? (My! Your younger sibling got married before you?) - So, like your ELDER brother is married??

7) Balik-balik jua ko pakai baju ani! Nada baju lain kah? (You're wearing the same dress over and over again! Don't you have anything else to wear?) - Don't look lah?

8) Eh jangan tah diet bah - inda jua ko mau kurus tu... (Eh! You don't need to diet - you won't be able to lose those weight...) - your point is? At least I am trying!

9) Nada ku buat eh, mana ada masa ku, mun housewife buleh lah (I didn't bake any of this, I don't have all the time like a housewife does) - Try to be a full time housewife - take Lynette Scavo of Desperate Housewives as an example. Busy kali jua ah housewife... Do not ever look down on them!

10) Maaf ah, kosong kosong! (Sorry, nil-nil ok) - You think just by saying that people will easily forgive you? You think life is football?

Well, Like I said the above were compiled during our visits. Come on lah, we must embrace the true spirit of Hari Raya, to forgive, to celebrate when we are given this rare opportunity to meet long lost cousins, not to tear people's feelings and heart with your razor sharp tongue.

Anyway, Selamat Hari Raya from me, Gembo, the observer.... still bitter with the first few comments directed sinisterly to my very close family member.

Gembo's 1st Day Hari Raya

2009-09-22T08:41:00.001+08:00

Alhamdulillah, we get to celebrate the 1430H / 2009 Aidil Fitri with the family again, Syukur for the opportunity and blessings.

Shot of the day. Camera was on timer, and as soon as 2 seconds left, she pulled this trick. So mischievous isn't she hehehe

Among the guests at our home, Ayoi's (my younger bro) in laws

My best buddy coming on the first day

Me & Aji (Haji Emran) with our eldest kids

Salam Aidil Fitri ~ Eid Mubarak 1430H

2009-09-21T06:34:00.003+08:00

To G E M B O and Gembo Home readers out there, and to all my family and dear friends whereever you are, on this auspicious and joyful day.

Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri

3/4ths of Me . . .

2009-09-08T22:14:00.003+08:00

My dearest wife, my rock, completes me. If there is any reason to live, it will be these three charming full of character angels, and of course my dear better half. After that episode early in the year, it's good to reassess my priorities in life.

On the air

2009-08-21T07:16:00.006+08:00

Thursday was spent in the air and on water. Job related, and no, am not complaining. In fact, I enjoyed it, including good food onboard a floating hotel.

Took off from here

Flew on this bird

Toured past here

Busy day at sea, something you don't see everyday

Solo outing at the BRIDEX @ 15.08.09

2009-08-17T20:11:00.010+08:00

I was on a solo outing to BridEx on 15.8.09. BridEx or Brunei International Defence Exhibition is a premier defense exhibition in the region, and held in Brunei every 2 years beginning on 2007.

Set up at a new location in Jerudong, the exhibition also included aerial displays by Republic of Singapore Air Force (F16 Fighting Falcon and the Chinook) as well as Royal Malaysian Air Force (Sukhoi Su30). Prior to that, Royal Brunei Armed Forces also put up an anti terrorism display, which includes helicopters, tanks, the Blackhawks and Bolkow choppers as well as troops coming from the sea and air!

Enjoy the pics here, but there are lots more in my facebook. Special thanks to bro Kantalensa for kindly lending me his Canon 70-200 f/2.8 L lens. It works great (its L after all), especially for the outdoor zoom shots.

The iconic semi-sphere glass building, the centre of the exhibition

The plaque as signed by our dear ruler, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah,

and this is the one signed by the Royal Guest, His Majesty King Abdullah II of Jordan

Comrades - Brothers in Arms

The soldiers on a quick drop from the Blackhawk

The sphere viewed from the beach front

Hmmm, which one should I shoot the enemy with... mmm, ok, I'll take the blue

I also didn't realise that there are many other versions of hand grenade

The Royal Malaysian Air Force Sukhoi SU30. This jet attracts my attention with its ability of not flying fast, but its ability to fly slow

Another great pose by the SU30

The Republic of Singapore Air Force 'Chinook', as massive twin rotor helicopter. Looks like a bus with big brollies on top

The Republic of Singapore Air Force Fighting Falcon doing the 'loop'

Now, this is a scene from Saving Private Ryan...... Not. No, this is part of the exhibition by Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

They grow so fast.... Alhamdulillah

2009-08-08T21:36:00.004+08:00

Feels just like yesterday that we have our first child.... that was about 8 years ago when Muhammad was born. Alhamdulillah, now we have three, and they are all growing fast. I'd dug old photos of each of them when they were babies; Muhammad was 6 days old whilst the girls pics were taken a few hours after labour.

Although it wasn't planned, their gaps are almost similar, Muhammad to Iman is 2 yrs 3 mths 20 days whilst Iman to Aaeeshah is 2 yrs 3 mths 24 days.

Aaeeshah, Muhammad and Iman during the boy's 8th birthday in May.

Muhammad, our first and only boy is now 8 yrs (May 28, 2001)

Iman, our eldest gal and second child is coming 6 yrs (Sept 17, 2003)

Aaeeshah, the youngest, cheeky one and Playhouse Disney channel hogger, is 3.5 yrs. (Jan 11, 2006)

Al-Fatihah for the late Yasmin Ahmad Storyteller

2009-07-26T21:56:00.003+08:00

Gubra and Sepet are 2 of the great modern time Malay movies that I've ever watched. They were directed by Yasmin Ahmad, self styled storyteller. I was surprised, saddened in fact to hear of her sudden illness and passing last night.

I chanced upon Yasmin Ahmad's blog, and saw this short ad which she produced under commission by the Singapore government. I love this ad, brought tears to my eyes. I watched it during the time I spent recovering, to the point I imagined my dear wife talking about me and my... well, 'car trouble starting' and 'strong rear wind'. I sensed something about that ad, but couldn't put a finger to it... until tonight. It was her magic touch.

My sincere condolence to her family. May Allah bless her soul. Amin.

KB Worldwide Photowalk - Gembo's view

2009-07-21T21:50:00.009+08:00

I am possibly the last member to update their blog with the KB Photowalk. Held recently in Kuala Belait Town on 18 July, there were 50 of us photo enthusiast, ranging from the teens to the 60's getting together to walk around town, capturing the sights and beauties of the town in which I was born and raised 35 years ago.

I was armed with my Canon 450D DSLR with the 28-135mm lens, which was slightly restrictive as I could not capture the wide angle shops. Well, one for the wish list.

No, I didn't manage to get any shots of the arches, as 1) it would look better at night and 2)the route I took have not arches at all heheh.

Enjoy the shots below. These are my picks, although I have to submit 2 best pics for to be uploaded to the Worldwide Photowalk website. For more pics, go to my facebook album.

I will definitely join the next photowalk, and hopefully to be better armed with wider/faser lens.... not so much on the speed, more on the 'bokeh' - i just love what Anakbrunei's 5DII and lens combination could do.

We started here - Tugu Cendera Kenangan, built in 1996 to commemorate His Majesty's the Sultan 50th birthday

Group Photo grabbed from Anakbrunei. Thanks bro.

A new playground in the making

My lame attempt at macro. Go to Kantalensa for superb macro shots

Panning Shots attempt

The 60's - from right - Haji Othman Paun and Haji Hasan Bakar

Jalan Pretty at 8.15 am.... still deserted

One of the contributors to our nation cleanliness

Oh yes, call her heheh

This is one location for footie enthusiasts to watch their favourite team, they've got big screen put up during the game night. Nice view of the river too (depends on the tide though)

So calm

KB Clock tower and HSBC building.... we walked in the MORNING

Don't believe me? see this!

KB original twin towers... it has been there since I was a kid... maybe 6 years old.

Caught my attention, wonder why

This is Saeed, my favourite tailor for Baju Cara Melayu. Have been with him for nearly 10 years now. He now ventures into ladies garment, and employed two filipinos

Ultraman welcomes you

Dosai anyone?

The KB clocktower and the KB Taxi stand - there is only 3 taxi's I remember parked there at any one time, but got space for 24.... go figure

Another angle, the clock tower and Kuala Belait Bus Terminal

Odd combination?

The top floor food court at the fish market

Happy

Chill

Kampong Melayu Asli, this is where I spent my first 16 years of my life

Calm

Waiting

Worldwide Photo Walk @ Sat, 18 July

2009-07-17T22:16:00.005+08:00

I will be among the 50 local photographers participating in the Worldwide Photowalk tomorrow. It will be 4km+ walk and the objective is to walk, talk and take lots of pictures.

As it happen to be during His Majesty The Sultan's Birthday celebrations, my guess is the beautiful arches will be the main 'targets'. To my non-Bruneian blogger-friends (you know who you are :D), InsyaAllah I will post the pitcures on this blog to share with you all.

I better get some sleep soon, as we have to gather by 6.30am.

KL - Day 4

2009-07-09T06:46:00.011+08:00

Day 4 - I started Friday morning visiting a friend from work (near KLCC). After an hour for a little catch up at Coffee Bean, I moved on to KLCC (and had another latte!) at Starbucks - not so much to have coffee but to get the Wi-Fi. Can you believe it where we stayed, they charge internet use at RM50 per day!

By lunch time, my wife, my sis and I had lunch with our online friend, Redmummy at Santini restaurant (KLCC). I had to leave early though as I had to attend the Friday prayers - see related post here.

Later that afternoon, we fulfilled our promise to the kids to go to KLCC Aquaria. The entrance fee was RM38 for adult and RM26 for children.

The kids enjoyed watching the piranhas, the creepy crawlies from our equatorial forests, the beautiful colourful butterflies and humongous (edible!) frogs, touching the starfishes and tiger sharks. We were also lucky to get the Piranha feeding show - it only took 16 second for a group of piranha to finish a mackerel to the bone! The finale was the 'Journey', where we get to ride on the 90m moving walkway through the huge aquarium, where lots of grouper, sting rays and sharks share the waters with turtles and lots of small fishes in the clear blue water.

Oh, the kids also got their caricatures drawn (Muhammad and Iman). Till my next updates on day 5.

Hungry Piranhas

Need Electricity?

Demonstrating life in the Amazon during rainy season. Tree roots supporting life.

The Journey

Alligator dreaming of becoming Muhammad heheh

Princess Iman

Ben 10 or Ben Muhammad

Muhammad and Leeja braving the beautiful albino python and chameleon

G E M B O

Happy New Year? Alhamdulillah, Happy New Year indeed.

Meet my friend ERIC. ERIC PD.

Missing...

It is safe... or is it?

Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde

Dirgahayu Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik

Catching up.... Iman's award for 2010, Congratulations Sayang!

To my fellow Bruneians... CSPS needs your help

Alhamdulillah... what next?

Kaseh Ibu... Rindu Babu

Good read my lord!

Just a thought..

Catching Up... Farewell to Ed and the Three Musketeer$

Tora.. Tora.. Tora....

Catching up.... Asha is 5 @ 11.1.11

Now, that's a long time!

Goodbye 2010... Hello 2011

Brothers in Arms

....however

Lloyd's of London

Uh oh..

Our 10 years anniversary gift to each other... Teaser

Empire Strikes Back!

3 more months....

Sadness

Kalau babah jadi bintang...?

Words of wisdom to my dear son Muhammad

Salam Aidil Adha from the G Family

Iron Maiden! Winston S Churchill: We Shall Fight on the Beaches...

Reached out... beyond borders

Safety Belt Really saves Lives

$30 is not equal to $1.44!

Ciggies? Or Rice? .... Your choice!

Reaching Out... Blogs?

uh oh... important posts that I've missed!

*Dusting* the blog....

Alhamdulillah. Happy 7th Birthday Our Beloved Iman

What's your name?

Indomie?

Ten years. 25.8.2000

Vindicated and Perseverance

Al-Quran - How lucky we are, Alhamdulillah

Salam Ramadhan

Where have the days gone?

A change....

My surprise birthday...

Overdues...

Gullible??

Storm is Coming?

You'll miss it when its gone. Don't wait.

A United Family.... well, almost

I will survive

Take my hand

Modern Day 'Padian'

Opportunity Seized!

Living on a prayer...

Asah Mata

Asha is 4 @ St James's School

Asha is 4

Bye Bye Pa

Salam Aidil Adha

Kindycare Graduation: Muhammad and Iman's farewell

We're proud of you, son!

Family Outing at Labi @ 7th November 2009

BSRC Berhari Raya 2009 @ 30 Oct 2009

Kids dental class

Project One Click One Pic @ 24 October 2009

Shadows of 69

4 legs and a ball

My thinking girl

Weekend at the Empire

The Thirty Seconds Quiz ~ Great Lesson

Chung Ching School Seria 71st Anniversary

Home Renovation

Holy Excitement

Father and Son

BSP Finance Beach Cleaning Campaign

HM Sultan visits Brunei Shell for its 80th Anniversary

Top ten mean things said during Hari Raya! DON'T!

Dusting the blog....