Jian Qing & Jin Fu's Wedding Reception @ Phongmun Restaurant

Two of our colleagues invited us to a dinner reception last night at the Phongmun Restaurant to celebrate their marriage which in fact had already taken place in China sometime last month. The bride, Jian Qing, is a Chinese national while the groom, Jin Fu, is a Malaysian. The reception here is for close friends and colleagues who are unable to attend their wedding in China. Congratulations to the new couple and may they have a baby (or twins) soon!

HM King Bhumibol's 82nd Birthday

Last night, The Royal Thai Embassy celebrated His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's 82nd Birthday at the Grand Hall of the Empire Hotel and Country Club. This is the second time that I have the opportunity to attend a function at this prestigious venue (the first time was a function hosted by the Empire Hotel & Country Club for its Hari Raya Open House). The guest of honour was the Minister of Development, Pehin Abdullah Mudim. I particularly enjoyed the Durian and Mango Glutinous Rice, Roasted Leg of Lamb and the Thai desserts which were delicious. Long Live King Bhumibol who is a caring monarch (just like our HM) and may His Majesty have many more birthdays to come!

Bleed for a Good Cause!

This morning, I attended a blood donation campaign organized by the Rotary Club of Brunei which was held at the Lexus showroom in Gadong. I must admit that I have not been donating blood for quite awhile; the last time I donated was in September 2008 and this is my 11th time. The guys at the Rotary Club and Lexus were very friendly and promised to sms me whenever they have such activities in future. The doctor who examined me said my blood pressure was too high and after a brief rest and a cup of tea, I was examined again and was given the green light to donate. I noticed there is a new form to be filled in this time (they said it is a new procedure) which consisted quite a few personal and intimate questions which I will not go into details! All donors were given a drinking bottle as a souvenir but with or without the souvenir, I will still support such meaningful activities!

76th Birthday of HM The Emperor of Japan

Last night the Embassy of Japan celebrated the 76th Birthday of His Majesty The Emperor of Japan at the International Convention Centre in Berakas. Among the evening's programme were a cake cutting ceremony performed by the guest of honour, Pehin Rahman Taib, the Minister of Education, martial arts performances, presentation of a medal (order of the rising sun) to Dr. Chin Yam Chin and some floral arrangements. There were lots of Japanese food, catered by various Japanese restaurants in the capital while the buffet spread was prepared by an international chained hotel. I had a photo opportunity with Mr. Rano Iskandar, a popular blogger and the owner of ranoadidas.com, a site which I followed. I also took this opportunity to get acquainted with some old (and new) friends and do some networking as I haven't been active in the diplomatic circle lately!

Tarindak Restaurant @ JPPC

Had dinner at Jerudong Park Polo Club (JPPC) last night with some friends and noticed some changes to the establishment; it's now called "Tarindak Restaurant" which also has an outlet at the Arts & Handicraft Centre, overlooking the Brunei River (both restaurants have the same name). Guess I haven't been to JPPC for quite a while (I was a member of JPPC many years ago)! The "Asprey" cutleries were replaced with normal stainless steel ones (except for the teaspoons) and the lighting in the restaurant is way too bright (lights should have been dimmed a little) which spoils the atmosphere and ambience of the restaurant. For such a grand place, the menu needs some attention as it is not impressive and dull looking! On the plus side, the presentation of the dishes we ordered was very good and the food was fantastic. My compliments to the chef!