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Special Pre-Hari Raya Issue July 2012 | Complimentary Copy

HOME + LIFESTYLE

GLAM UP HARI
RAYA
for

7 Golden Rules
for choosing
CURTAINS

PREMIUM CATERING LISTING & DISCOUNT VOUCHERS INSIDE!

 Check Out Our
Unbeatable Shopping Vouchers!

CONTENTS
08 ADVICE

GLAM UP for HARI RAYA

55

32 COVER FEATURE

HOME FEATURE
18 INSPIRED BY DE TAIL 32 CELEBR AT ING LIFE

10 RETAIL FEATURE
Dat-co: A Matter of Style & Beauty

51 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW
Javed Ahmad on Islamic Finance, Hari Raya and more...

56 WHERE TO BUY
Classic Furniture from Thomson, Neo Metro, SAMO and more!

60 PLACES THAT INSPIRE

The Empire Hotel & Country Club

More Vouchers on Page 63!!!

04 EDITOR'S NOTE

PUBLISHING INFORMATION
A monthly magazine on homeliving and lifestyle
EDITOR’S NOTE
supported by Butra HeidelbergCement and
produced by Catalyst

PROJECT DIRECTOR 3
Stuart Lee 6
4
PUBLISHER / EDITOR 6 7
5
Shaun Hoon 8 2
1

SUB EDITOR
Debbie Maxwell 8 *Photo by Azim Ghani
taken at Samo Furniture

ART DIRECTOR
Azlan Ahmad 7
Glam Up for Hari Raya!
PROJECT CO-ORDINATOR /
PHOTOGRAPHER If you have spent Hari Raya overseas, then you would
Sarah Ong 2 agree that no other country celebrates Hari Raya quite the
way Bruneians do. It is a month long festival that brings
GRAPHIC DESIGNERS / the nation to a standstill, a time when everything we do
PHOTOGRAPHER revolves around food, home visits and looking good.
Rachael Yeo 1
John Lee So this year, if you are serious about making Raya
unforgettable, it's time to start your preparations now. We
have dedicated this entire issue plus the following one to
CONTRIBUTORS & SPECIAL ADVISOR helping you do just that, by providing practical advice on
where to shop and what to do to glam up your home for
Sebastian Yeoh 4
this celebration.
Mei Law 5
Professor Chong
Follow the directions in this magazine, and you will save
some money with our tips and discount vouchers from
INTERN
different retail outlets. We have also listed some of Brunei’s
Anastacia Kim
premium food caterers whose professional involvement
Muhammad Yusuf Haji Abdul Rahim 3
in your Hari Raya will certainly make a lasting impression
on your visitors. But here’s a quick word of advice: if
Advertising Inquiry
you decide to go with the pros, book early, as the good
223 3630 / 717 4286 caterers are almost impossible to hire as it gets closer to
All Inquiries the Raya season.
E editor@butrahome.com
T 223 3630 Now close your eyes for a moment and picture a typical
www.butrahome.com Hari Raya home setting. What is the first color that comes
to your mind? If like me, it’s gold, gold and more gold, then
Like us on facebook! you’ve just passed my “How-Bruneian-Are-You?” test.
www.facebook.com/butrahome So sit back and brace yourself for an issue that dazzles
your eyes, with a golden line up of recommendations and
inspiration that will make your 2012 Raya one to always
remember!

Until then, Selamat Berpuasa!

All rights reserved.

No part of this work may be reproduced or transmitted

in any form or by any means electronic or mechanical,
including photocopying, recording or by any
information storage or retrieval system, without the
written permission of BHC Magazine.

The contents of individual articles in this publication

represent the respective writers' opinions only which
may not necessarily be endorsed by BHC Magazine. Shaun Hoon
Editor & Publisher
' '
 08 HOME ADVICE | GLAM UP FOR HARI RAYA
PHOTO CREDIT | FABRICA
STEPS TO
GLAM UP FOR
HARI RAYA
H ari Raya is a joyous time for family get-togethers
and for entertaining friends and relatives. This year we’ve
come up with a few ideas which will help you to add that
extra touch of glamour to your home so that you can
celebrate in style.
1. Go for Gold
The colour gold is opulent and precious and has always
been used by celebrities and royalty. Choose gold picture
frames, mirrors, lamps, candle holders, vases, cushions,
statues or ornaments to add a touch of richness to your
décor. The trick with using gold in decorating is to find
the right place for the object in the room.
2. Add flair with Flowers
Use floral arrangements to brighten up and accentuate
any area in your home. Vases of fresh roses; beautiful
artificial arrangements; dried floral centre pieces; unique
soap floral arrangements are all great choices depending
on your personal style and taste. Just remember to
choose colours that will enhance your décor.
3. Dine like Royalty
Get that regal look with fine tableware and cutlery.
Set your table with china or porcelain dinnerware and
finish of with crystal glasses, silver cutlery and linen
napkins. Carefully select your tablecloth, candleholders
and /or floral centre piece. Your table should look well-
co-ordinated and should entice your guests.
4. Dazzle with Dishes
You’ve spent a lot of time deciding on your menu, so
make sure that your sumptuous food is served up in
beautiful dishes. Bowls, serving plates and trays should
be chosen to highlight the delicious food that is in
them.
5. Brighten up your Home
Hari Raya is a great time to use lights to decorate
your home both inside and outside. From fabulous
chandeliers, elegant floor lamps and exotic candle
displays to bright, colourful outdoor lighting. It all sets
the stage for celebration.
 10 RETAIL FEATURE | DAT-CO | A MATTER OF STYLE & BEAUTY BHC | JULY 2012 11
11

A
matter
of
style &
beauty
Dat-Co is a furniture and lifestyle company that you
cannot ignore, if you appreciate the finer things in life and
belong to the 0.05% of the population who can afford a
$20,000 sofa.

This furniture shop remained a mystery to us, until we

spent 3 hours flipping through almost every single
price tag on the products that captured our attention,
while taking photographs of the 3-storey gallery that is
celebrating its 22nd anniversary.

To our surprise, there were a wide range of items and

accessories that were very affordable, which were
exquisitely displayed alongside designer pieces such as
Versace and Fendi.

In a rare interview with the owner, Mr. George Cheong,

who spent a big part of his time with his business venture
Dat-Co Design overseas, we discussed the founding principles of Dat-Co,
PHOTOS | SARAH ONG Furniture Gallery at Jalan Tutong, BSB. the philosophy of design and business in China.
 12 RETAIL FEATURE | DAT-CO | A MATTER OF STYLE & BEAUTY BHC | JULY 2012 13

Mr. Cheong is confident that Bruneians have the

purchasing power for luxury items, citing the number of
luxury motor vehicles on the road. However, it does take a
lot more convincing to do, when it comes to getting them
to spend $20,000 on a sofa. “It is a matter of education,
a matter of helping them to appreciate the kind of
detailed craftsmanship, art and effort behind each piece
of furniture”, said Mr. Cheong.

Even though it was difficult for me to fully understand

this world of luxury, one thing that both of us agreed on
was that: While money can buy you expensive furniture,

"While money can buy you expensive it can’t buy you taste. How then, does one develop a
sense of style and beauty? Mr. Cheong’s solution was one

furniture, it can't buy you taste..."

that was both practical and humbling: Exposure. Indeed,
Dat-Co Design it is only through a relentless quest for improvement by
Furniture Gallery at Jalan Tutong, BSB. consciously drawing references from different places and
people that our ‘taste’ could improve!
7
ADVICE | CURTAINS BHC | JULY 2012 15

Golden Rules for choosing

CURTAINS
O
5. Curtain Trends
ne of the best ways to Sheer curtains give a room
transform or update your an airy soft look and are
interior is with curtains. sensational in charcoal colours
Beautiful curtains protect with matching coloured lining.
your privacy, shield you
from the sun and frame your Sculpted and pleated curtain
view. Choose from a range fabrics are also quite popular.
of header styles, textures,
colours and trims and show Trendy colours include soft
off your personal flair. dove greys, warm charcoals
and deep coffee tones, with
When choosing curtains these neutral colours your
consider the following furnishings and cushions can
guidelines -: be bolder.
1. Durability For a sophisticated look, go for
silk curtains.
Choose a fabric that will not
easily fade, sun rot, shrink or If you’re into more casual
become weak from cleaning elegance, choose linen or silky
or handling. You want your taffeta.
curtains to stay looking
beautiful. Lastly, why not look at
embroidered fabrics if you
2. Colour & Texture want to highlight beautiful
details.
The colour of fabric should
be selected to coordinate, 6. Header Styles
compliment and support
your room’s décor. Curtains A header is the gathering at
are available in a range of the top of a curtain which is
fabrics – formal, informal, created by sewing a heading
solid or sheer, you’re sure to tape to the top of the fabric.
find something to suit your Some styles include, pencil,
taste. inverted, double and eyelet.
The ripplefold or s-fold style,
3. Orientation if used with lightweight and
sheer fabrics gives the curtain
The direction your windows a sleek modern look. The pinch
face and exposure to direct pleat is ideal for lined curtains.
sunlight is important.
Choose a thicker texture 7. Lining
fabric if your windows are
exposed to south or west lighting as this type of lighting This is a separate fabric that’s sewn to the back of the
could be damaging. curtain, without lining your curtains will soon rot and
fade. Lining can be sewn down the sides of the curtain
4. Privacy (bagged) or can be caught every so often down the sides
(loose-lined).
This is an important consideration and can be
accomplished with layered fabrics and liners. Remember,
that sheer fabric will provide privacy during the day but
not at night. Resources
Top Curtains: Chua Interior, Center Curtains: Fabrica
 16 HOME ADVICE | KHAN'S CARPETS & RUGS

BIGGEST BRANDS BIGGEST RANGE BEST PRICES

THE MAGIC CARPET
Secret formula for choosing the right one!
PHOTO | SARAH ONG

R&T ELECTRONIC ENTERPRISE

Main Branch
No.2-5, Ground & First Floor
Bangunan Hj Awg Matusin H.A.
Kg Kiulap, B S Begawan
T +673 223 7248/9
Kilanas Branch Gadong Branch
No:1169, Unit 1-5 No:1,2,3&4, Ground Floor
KM13, Kg Kilanas Bangunan Hasbullah 2, Spg 137
Jalan Tutong, B S Begawan Jalan Gadong, B S Begawan
T +673 266 3999 / 3777 T +673 245 5888 / 6888

Owner of Khan's Carpet, Mr. Ikram Khan

P icture this, it’s Hari Raya and you’ve invited a few

friends over to share in the celebration. You have a new
4 Key Questions to Consider...
Before you go out shopping for rugs, here are a few key
sofa set and beautiful silk curtains to match, your living
questions to keep in mind.
room looks sensational. But as you look around, there’s
something missing. The floor looks bare; you need to add
1. What colour carpet are you looking for?
that finishing touch.
Make sure that it matches your décor.
When you are looking for rugs and carpets, do consider
2. What type of pattern do you like?
Khan's Carpet and Rugs, a retailer in Kiarong with a newly
Traditional with flowers; or modern geometric?
refurbished branch in the Gadong area, run by a passionate,
young operator, Mr. Ikram Khan.
3. What size is the area?
Will the carpet/rug go under a coffee table or dining
The six year old store is renowned for selling carpets from
table; or along a hall way? Measure the area accurately.
Turkey, Pakistan, Belgium, Iran and China. With over 20,000
rugs in stock, it would be impossible not to find something
4. What price are you willing to pay?
to suit your specific taste and budget. As there is so much
A more sizeable budget could get you a beautiful
to choose from, it is easy to get confused, which is why it
hand-made Turkish rug; a lower budget could get you
is handy to know that there is a hands-on and experienced
a stylish, washable rug.
owner, who is in the shop all the time to provide personal
guidance and expert advice.
 18 BRUNEI HOME FEATURE | INSPIRED BY DETAIL BHC | JULY 2012 19
11

INSPIRED DETAIL
by

Inside view of the extended patio area

used for entertainment display.

Book shelf tucked behind the

featured panel to hide away
clutter.

Architect Arki Concept 

Contractor Zalin Wood Art and Furniture
Carpet Gurukal Sdn Bhd
Japanese Table Zalin Wood Art and Furniture
PHOTOS | RACHAEL YEO

Malay decorating philosophy meets Japanese living ideology, blending flowery design with the use of space.
20 BRUNEI HOME FEATURE | INSPIRED BY DETAIL BHC | JULY 2012 21
11

"This house manages

to combine the
practicality of
modern architectural
design with superb
personal style."

Carpet   Mohan's Carpet Palace

Study Table Thomson Furniture
 22 BRUNEI HOME FEATURE | INSPIRED BY DETAIL BHC | JULY 2012 23
11

S tanding proudly at the entrance of their home, is a

smiling family of five who are eagerly waiting to show us
around their private sanctuary. This house manages to
combine the practicality of modern architectural design
with superb personal style. But this should come as no
surprise, as the lady of the house has a background in
architecture and interior design, and this is evident
wherever you look. Having recently moved into this
house, already she has been able to transform it with her
own distinctive decorating ideas. As a wife and mother
of three children under the age of nine, her goal is to
make her home family friendly and beautiful. Therefore,
nothing in this house has been left to chance; every
aspect of style has been thoroughly thought out and
purposely executed to create rooms that have their own
gracious and unique feel.

Stepping into the open plan living and dining area of

this home, one experiences a sense of luxury and fluid
spaciousness. Elegant furniture adorns both areas with
matching curtains that perfectly dress the huge windows.
But what immediately captivated our imaginations were
the various floral arrangements which were strategically
placed around the room. When the owner was asked
about these arrangements, she shyly smiled and explained
that she was the one who’d made all of the arrangements;
and that each flower had been made from soap.

Soap? We were shocked and couldn’t believe that each

Candle Ornaments Happy Star
Trolley Tiong Jaya Furniture
Dining Table Thomson Furniture
one of those delicate roses had been handcrafted from
ordinary soap. But our hostess went on to explain that
she’d learnt this skill from her mother when she was a
teenager, and now as a stay at home mum herself, she’d
made arrangements for her own home which friends
had noticed and were now ordering from her. This time
consuming skill now allowed her to work from home doing
something that she obviously loves and is passionate
about.
 BHC | JULY 2012 25
11

Distributor for:

But the unique floral arrangements were not the only

eye-catching pieces in this home. We were told that both
husband and wife always discussed and agreed on the
selections for their home; and looking around we saw
quite a few interestingly displayed items. For example, the
“Perak” or ornate cushions which were given to the couple
as wedding presents; the “Tepak Sirih” or beautifully
decorated boxes which were used for presenting wedding
gifts; gold framed Middle Eastern motifs on the walls;
exquisite chandeliers; antique ornaments; an unusual clock
and a picturesque fish tank neatly fitted into a wall unit.
All these details worked together to give this area of the
home a very special ambience. Another notable design
feature was the framed recess area in which the television
was located; this highlighted the clever use of space. And
as we wondered around the corner of the recess area, we
were pleasantly surprised to discover a quaint reading
place, with hidden book shelves and windows that looked
out onto the garden.

After patiently allowing us to view their home, our hosts

kindly invited us to share a delicious meal with them. We
all sat around the table, ate and chatted. The owners were
keen to stress that this house was still a work in progress
as they had so many more decorating ideas to implement,
both inside and outside. However, for us the house seemed
perfect just as it was, more than a beautiful home we could
tell that this was a happy home.
End

Football Stools  Zalin Wood Art and Furniture

 26 ADVICE | HOME DECO | FLOWER CRAFT WITH SOAPS

DIY for Hari Raya! 'Soap-Flower'

M
aking soap flowers requires time, patience and
imagination. If you want to try making these
The best thing about
delicate flowers here’s a basic guideline to help
you.
these soap flowers is
that the fragrance lasts
How to get started! for a long time as if it is
1. Grate the bath soap finely, just the way you grate a
coconut. The pieces should be very fine, so use your
real and fresh!
hands to make it as fine as possible.

2. Mix the soap pieces with fevicol. Make sure that the
proportion of the grated soap and fevicol is even or you
can add a bit more fevicol if necessary.

3. Stir the contents properly so that the pieces disappear

and make it into a soft dough .

(Note:- A fan should be kept off while preparing the

dough, or the mixture may get hard and it will be
difficult to make the flowers.)

4. Now, take small pieces of the dough and make petals by

flattening each piece.

5. Arrange each petal on the aluminium wire one by one.

6. After you fix each petal cover the remaining aluminium

wire using green tape.

This way you can make different shapes and different

varieties of flowers using your own imagination.

Tips brought to you by Hjh Rozana. To find out more

about this topic or make your bookings for soap floral
arrangements, contact her at 860 5360.

Materials Used: 1. (Soft) Bath Soap 2. Fevicol 3. Green Tape 4. Aluminium Wire
 28 PROPERTIES | Q & A WITH SEBASTIAN YEOH BHC | JULY 2012 19
11

PROPERTY Q&A WITH SEBASTIAN YEOH

Picture: Contemporary terrace housing units found in Jalan Muara, Bandar Seri Begawan

Q | Give us a guideline on what homebuyers could expect buyers at this level should be able to live quite comfortably T: 2222288 | 2422511 | 8888713 W: www.valorproperty.com

to pay for different types of houses in Brunei? in Brunei. In the present market, I would consider BND
250,000 to BND 300,000 to be the medium price range
A | Here’s a basic breakdown of the various housing types in Brunei. For this sum, you could purchase a 4 bedroom
and the current price ranges in Brunei: semi-detached house (with Perpetuity).

• Terrace: BND 200,000 to BND 235,000. Q | The previous issue of BHC Magazine talked about the
• Semi-Detached: BND 250,000 to $300,000 4,000 Housing Estates that are being heavily subsidized
• Detached: BND 300,000 & above. by the government. What effect do you think this will
have on the property and development market in Brunei?
Of course, the above are not fixed figures, as you
would need to take into consideration the location, the A | Initially, most of the developers were worried about their Selling Price : $230,000.00 / Unit Selling Price : $350,000.00 Selling Price : $190,000.00 / Unit
environment and other factors such as workmanship & businesses because they thought that everyone would Location : Kg Peninjau, Jerudong Location : Kg Bengkurong, Jln Tutong Location : Kg Bebatik Kilanas, Jln Tutong
design. be going for the partly subsidised Government housing Type of Property :
House Size / Land Area :
D/Storey Corner Terrace
2,058 sq ft / 0.104 acre
Type of Property :
House Size :
Stilt house
2,500 sq ft / 0.239 acre
Type of Property :
House size / Land Area :
D/Storey Terrace
1,800 sq ft / 0.048 acre
scheme, instead of investing in other types of property. Bedroom : 4 Bedroom : 4 Bedroom : 3
Property Code: J-H/321 Property Code: T-H/941 Property Code: T-H/984
However, the Government did a great job of allocating the
Q | What is the entry price point and the median price houses to only the lower income earners who needed the
range of residential properties in Brunei? assistance, so this in turn had a minimum effect on the
middle to upper income buyers on the market.
A | For as low as $128,000, you should be able to buy
a brand-new 3 bedroom bungalow(with a lease title) in A positive aspect of the housing projects is that it has
areas like Junjungan. However, for this price the location stimulated the whole economy, starting with furniture
would be further away from the city. businesses and extending to household necessities and
home electronics, which has resulted in a positive ripple
When it comes to property in the median price range, effect on the economy.
Selling Price : $320,000.00 Selling Price : $500,000 Selling Price : $260,000 / Unit

Location : Kg Subok Location : Kg Mata Mata, Gadong Location : Ban 3, Pasai

Type of Property : D/Storey Detach Type of Property : D/Storey Detach Type of Property : D/Storey Semi Detach

Send in your questions to: sebastian@spad.com.bn House Size / Land Area :

Bedroom :
2,382 sq ft / 0.12 acre
4
House Size :
Bedroom :
4,000 sq ft / 0.17 acre
5
House Size / Land Area :
Bedroom :
2,579 sq ft
4
Property Code: S-H/227 Property Code: G-H/743 Property Code: T-H/970
 FEATURE | ROOFS: MADE IN BRUNEI BHC | JULY 2012 31
11

ROOFS: MADE IN BRUNEI

BUCKINGHAM PALACE - Solid Wood Series Have you ever wondered how builders are able to get Color Steel Roofing Tile is renowned for its lightweight
roofing to fit perfectly on houses of different shapes and trademark and its horizontal fixing method, whereby
sizes? the roof tile is fastened through the front tile to the roof
battens, thereby resulting in substantial savings on the
It was fascinating to learn that not only do roof tiles come cost of the roofing structure. The company stands by its
in different shapes and sizes, which are assembled like product by providing a 10 year warranty against color
Lego pieces, but that there is a company right here in fading and a 25 year warranty workability.
Brunei that actually makes roof tiles. And what's more, this
BOX II - Lacquered Series company specializes in customized roofing tiles that meet
The Heart of Your Family the specification of individual home owners.
www.ghkitchen.com.my
We got a glimpse behind the scenes of how roofs are
manufactured by visiting Hasmit’s industrial site, an ISO
Brunei
for Kitchen Design Consultancy
9002 certified local company that not only produces
roofing for the local market but also exports to the region.
+673 223 3050
email: sales@zestlc.com One of their flagship products, Color Steel Roofing Tiles,
EGYPT IMPRESSION - PVC Series
uses Galvalume Steel Sheet, a high strength, versatile
and light steel sheet imported from Taiwan and Japan.
Malaysia This material comes rolled up in big circular pieces, which
for Kitchen Design Consultancy
are then sized to meet the requirement of individual
Miri, Sarawak customers.
+60 85 650 339

KK, Sabah
+60 88 254 339 SEIMENTIC 0 - MFC Series If you are in the home industry and are involved in local manufacture or production
(Made in Brunei) we would like to hear from you! Send us an email to editor@butrahome.com.
Please visit our showrooms in Miri and Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia. Or our website www.ghkitchen.com.my
Miri showroom: Lot 2562, Ground Floor, Bulatan Commercial Centre, 98000 Miri, Sarawak
KK Showroom: Blk G, Lot No.10, Ground Floor, 88 Market Place, Lorong Pusat Kommersil 88/1, Jln Pintas, 88300 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
PERSONAL LOAN
COVER FEATURE | BRUNEI HOME | CELEBRATING LIFE BHC | JULY 2012 33

CELEBRATING
LIFE!

PHOTOS | RACHAEL YEO & SARAH ONG

34 COVER FEATURE | BRUNEI HOME | CELEBRATING LIFE BHC | JULY 2012 35

Petrof Grand Piano Yippy Tune Music School

Floral Carpet Dat-co
 BHC | JULY 2012 37

Since 1975

Custom Made
Sofa
&
Upholstery
A
Service
va ya
il a b Ra
le f o r H a ri
Furniture
Renovation
Shop Fitting
Interior Design

Visit our showroom

17, Spg 625

Kampung Madewa
Jalan Tutong BF1120
Bandar Seri Begawan

T +673 265 1825 Curtains Fabrica

Chez Lounge Crimson Square
F +673 265 0112
Painting Alley Frame Maker
38 COVER FEATURE | BRUNEI HOME | CELEBRATING LIFE

"This home was not designed to

impress but to serve a practical
purpose for the family. In doing Kids & Babies’ Room Photo Contest
so, it leaves the guests feeling at
1st Prize 2nd Prize 3rd Prize
ease the moment they step in." BND 1,000 from
Butra HeidelbergCement
BND 800 from
Insurans Islam TAIB Sdn Bhd
Kid’s Playhouse (below)
worth BND 695
+ from Triple Star
Have your room
featured on
October’s cover page!

October 2012 | Complimentary Copy

HOME + LIFESTYLE

Coolest
Kid’s Rooms
in Brunei

Best
Deals
& Selections

OUTSMART YOUR BABIES (BABY PROOF STRATEGIES THAT WORK)

 BHC | JULY 2012 41
11

Family pets, Russian Blue Cats:

Tatiana and Kaylob

"The soothing
selections of colors
on the walls reflect
the sense of calmness
that pervades the
atmosphere"

Carpets Mohan's Carpet Palace

Floral sofa Thomson furniture,
Reupholstered by Fabrica.
Floral design Euro Classic
Cats BTC Transport (Imported from Brisbane)
42 COVER FEATURE | BRUNEI HOME | CELEBRATING LIFE BHC | JULY 2012 43

The sun room is the area of the house where the family begins their day.

A majority of the furniture

in this home has come from
different parts of the world
where the owners have
traveled and lived.
With pieces range from St.
John's Place in London and
Hertfordshire in the UK, to
Milan, New York, Prague,
Czechoslovakia, China and
Korea.

Chess Set from Peru

The Jawi scripted frame on the staircase is of particular

sentimental value to the owner, as it was from the owner's late Undoubtedly, our favourite part of this house was the
father's travel to Haj.
KHAN’S kitchen-dining room area. This room was functional and
contemporary in style, and the wall length glass windows

CARPET & RUGS in this area provided ample light to the room and also
gave us a glimpse of the beautiful garden. With a trellis
covered in verdant grape vines, the brick wall in the
background is lushly masked with foliage that is dotted
with precious gem like flowers, all creating a picturesque
scene. It almost felt as though we were not in Brunei, but
somewhere in Europe.

A t least once a week, this family would set the dining

table in the manner of a fine restaurant. Exquisite
crockery and delicate linen napkins would all be perfectly However, their Malay heritage is also proudly present in
laid out and candles would be lit, creating a regal setting the main living room which is styled with a Classic–Royal
for a sumptuous dinner to be enjoyed by all. Sometimes, Bruneian touch and is perfect for entertaining guests,
friends and family would be invited over; or else just the especially during Hari Raya.
resident family of four would indulge in a feast, simply to
appreciate each other’s presence and to celebrate their Moving into the other chambers of this house, the
lives together. soothing selections of colors on the walls reflect the
sense of calmness that pervades the atmosphere. The
SPECIALIZE IN CARPET TILES, WALL TO WALL CARPET AND WALLPAPER Having spent much of their life overseas, this couple, who homeowners' sense of refined style is evident in their
have two young children, have been deeply influenced by choice of pictures, ornaments and carpets, which are all
elegantly displayed throughout the house. Root herbs, including gingers, galanga and tumeric with a
Main Branch Gadong Branch the traditional English cottage and classic European style variety of jasmine were planted in this garden.
No. 2, 3 & 4 Unit 7, Block 1 of decorating.
Spg 41-1-12 Spg 137, Jln Gadong
Jln Kiarong Abdul Razak Complex
Kg. Kiarong BE 1518 Gadong BE4119 khancarpet2008@gmail.com
T: 673 8 828 452 T/F: 673 2 456 610 www.facebook.com/khanscarpet
Bricks Ong Marble Trading Company
Marble and Tiles Ong Marble Trading Company Cake Rack Le Apple
 44 COVER FEATURE | BRUNEI HOME | CELEBRATING LIFE

The Blinds Specialist

Honey Comb Blinds | Zebra Blinds
Roller Blinds | Pleate Blinds
Timber Blinds | Roman Blinds
Venetian Blinds | Vertical Blinds
Panel Blinds

End

The garden outbuilding is influenced by traditional Brunei Malay architecture. The outbuilding depicts "Kampong life". Visit the largest &
latest blinds and interior
concept showroom
in Brunei!

Not only was it a great pleasure to view the design and

decorating style of this house but, it was also a lesson
about being a gracious host (who took time out of her
busy schedule to prepare for us freshly baked muffins) Kitchen | Bedroom | Study Room | Living Room | Dining Room
and a timely reminder to celebrate life without requiring
any special reason at all!
223 3996 | www.moonlight.com.my 242 6577 | www.sunpizz.com

Swiming Pool Icarus Sdn Bhd

Outbuilding Carpenter Alfie End Chua Interior Furnishing Co.
No.20-21, Ground Floor, Block B, Regent Square, Kg. Kiulap, BSB BE1518, Brunei Darussalam.
Tel : 223 5796 Fax : 223 3496
HOME ADVICE | KEEPING IT COOL
Keeping it Cool
W ith just 11 weeks to go before Hari Raya, there
are a number of things to be done before the big event.
Many people will be busy spring cleaning the house and
one important piece of equipment which needs to be
professionally cleaned and serviced is the air condition
units. These units need to be working well in order to keep
the guests cool and comfortable during this important
celebration.
What is Routine Servicing?
If you have a split unit air conditioning system, routine
servicing is done on the indoor unit of the system. This
means that the indoor filter and the crossbow fan in the
unit is cleaned. It is important to service the indoor unit
every three months to ensure that there is sufficient gas
and no leakage or condensation of water due to blockage
of the water pipe. Once this is done your unit should cool
at an optimum temperature.
What is General Servicing?
General servicing means that both the indoor and outdoor
units of the air conditioning system are cleaned and
checked. More often than not, the technicians will have to
take down the outdoor unit to give the parts a thorough
chemical washing and they will also check for sufficient
gas and any leakage. In the case of inverter air
BHC | JULY 2012 47
11
(during Raya!)
By Professor Chong
conditioning units, the technicians will vacuum the piping
again to ensure that it is clean and they will reset the
air conditioner so that the sensor will calibrate the size
of the room and store all the data in its memory. Only a
professional technician is competent enough to carry out
these tests.
Prior to Hari Raya, air conditioning units usually sell out
quickly. It is advisable to know the number of guests you
are having and the size of the venue. You should then get
in touch with your air conditioner supplier and ask for his
advice. A one stop centre is an excellent choice since this
type of centre usually supply, install, service and stock
spare parts. Some will provide warranties for up to 7 years
for unlimited multiple claims on compressors and this is
your assurance of the product's quality and reliability.
So, if you are planning to install new air conditioning units
for Hari Raya, do not leave it until the last minute, make sure
that you place your order well ahead of time. Remember,
that sometimes your local distributor may have to place
the order up to 6 months prior to delivery. It is also better
to install the air conditioner before your function to give
it a trial run to make sure that it is working like clockwork.
Resources:
Air Conditioner: Panassonic
Distributor & Air Condition Servicing: AEC Sdn Bhd
 48 CEMENT 101 | THE ASSURANCE OF QUALITY BHC | JULY 2012 19
11

THE ASSURANCE OF Seeks, baits and eliminates

QUALITY
Continuing on our series on “Understanding Cement for
Home Builders”, in this issue we discuss the process of
termites colonies to the last bite

how quality cements are differentiated to ensure a strong

foundation for our home.

Q| How is Brunei Cement different and why should we

trust its quality?

A| Brunei Cement’s quality is assured by an array

of endorsements that we received from accredited Detection Extraction of soil Installation of In Installation of
Ground (IG) Unit Above Ground
international authorities with certifications such as ISO (AG) Unit
9001, OHSAS 18001 and ISO 14001. In Brunei, our
operation team goes through a stringent testing every
2 hours to ensure it passes the high standard set by the
Ministry of Development.

These tests are divided into 4 main components which

scrutinize different aspects of the production process to
ensure the highest quality of cement at the end of the day.

These tests include:

1. Chemical Analysis

This test result will help us determine how our cement

will be designed in terms of fineness, residue and clinker/
gypsum ratio. Choice of three packages custom-made
suit your requirement. Call us now for more info.
2. Sulphate Determination

As sulphate determines the setting time of a cement and

concerete mixture, this test provides an accurate estimation PrioritY
riori
ri
iori
ri serv
se ic e
PlatinuM
latinu
atinu
atin
atinu
t nserv
s ic e
Gold
o
serv
se ic e

of the length of the setting time.

3. Blaine Fineness

The fineness of the cement plays a significant role in

determining the strength of the cement. This test is carried
out every 2 hours using a Blaine test machine. BHC uses
high quality clinker in our cement mix, thus we produce
some of the finest cements you can find in the region.
4. Compressive Strength Test
This is the lengthiest and a crucial element of the test,
which can only be achieved in 28 days.
During this process, each cement sample will be divided
into 3 parts to be tested on the 2nd, 7th and 28th day from
the date of moulding. The 2nd and the 7th day will show
the development of the early strength of that particular
cement sample. The 28th day will show the late strength.
Brunei Cement strength standard is 62.5N/mm and is
achieved on the 28th day by doing the crushing test.
Rentokil’s Colony Elimination Professional Programme (CEP²™)
is specially designed to safeguard your home against termite infestations.
CEP²™ has been proved and time-tested to be the most effective method
of its kind by destroying termite colonies in homes, offices and factories
through the adoption of this unique Seek, Bait & Eliminate method.
For immediate solutions, call us at 822 0088
or visit us at:
Rentokil Initial (B) Sdn Bhd
Unit D1 & D1-1, Block D,
Bangunan Haji Lajim & Anak-Anak
Kg. Kiarong, BSB, BE1318, Brunei Darussalam
website: www.rentokil.com.bn

Cheung Kong Center One Raffles Quay
Hong Kong Singapore
“LYSAGHT® structural decking was developed in the mid 1960s.
Since its’ inception, it has been widely utilized by the construction industry in
many other parts of South East Asia, UAE and Australia.
As Lost Formwork, our LYSAGHT® BONDEK® II can be designed to span
up to 3.8m unpropped reducing both time and monetary resources for the
installation of scaffold props and timber formwork.
This becomes most valuable for high-rise buildings where time-per-
floor cycle is critical and at great heights where propping is
almost impossible.
Combining the unique features of self-researched embossment
design, flutes on pans and male-female ribs lapping detail, our
LYSAGHT® BONDEK® II can also be designed as a composite slab with
a design for fire.”
Industrial Complex Beribi Phase 1, 6km, Jalan Gadong,
Bandar Seri Begawan BE 1118, Brunei Darussalam
Tel: +673 - 244 7155/6, 2452 571 Fax: +673 - 2447154
Email: bluescope@brunet.bn Website: www.bluescopesteel.com
EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW | JAVED AHMAD
Mr. Javed Ahmad:
Hari Raya and more...
PHOTOS | SARAH ONG
Petronas Twin Towers Bahrain Financial Harbour
Kuala Lumpur Bahrain
Fusionopolis @ One-North
Singapore
B efore the interview officially commenced, Mr. Javed
Ahmad flipped through BHC magazine’s June Issue and
stopped by the page that mentioned the Miele washing
machine, which was featured in the Steve Jobs article.
Immediately, the Managing Director of BIBD turned into a
domestic expert, he told us about his Miele stories (Javed
has a total of 4 Miele vacuum cleaners, the oldest was
bought in 1996 and is still fully functional); his obsession
with cleanliness, passion for gardening; and he revealed
to us a simple, practical and hands-on side of him that is
well hidden beneath the dark corporate suit that we are
accustomed to seeing in the newspaper.
Despite Javed’s position, which routinely requires him
to turn up at events and functions, he tries to have at
least two meals at home (breakfast and dinner) per day
and prefers not to have more than one business dinner
arrangement in a week. It was certainly clarified, when he
openly bragged about how wonderful a cook his wife is.
BHC | JULY 2012 51
Mr. Javed Ahmed, Managing Director of BIBD
"You should invest in a good piece of
furniture and maintain it well, not only
is it more economical in the long run, it
is also more environmentally friendly..."
What you may also not know is that this banker spends
time at The Tool Box in Jalan Muara on his weekends,
picking up home improvement tools and ideas to spruce
up his home and garden.
Javed is the person in charge of buying the household
furniture and equipment at home, and is also instrumental
in secretly changing the kitchen appliances whenever his
wife is away.
Javed has strong family orientated values and is an
intensely private person. He respectfully declined, when
it came to an invitation for a BHC’s home feature, but
graciously accepted the request for a Q&A about Islamic
Finance and its relevance to Brunei’s homeowners.
52 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW | JAVED AHMAD BHC | JULY 2012 53

"An Islamic
Financial
Institution needs
to adhere to a set
of strict guidelines,
which state that
the money we
invest must not go
into any unethical
business practices."

powered

We kicked off with a tough question that instantly put

Javed on the spot. We asked for his view on the culture
of Bruneian’s Hari Raya spending - where we change
furniture once a year to impress our guests.

Javed: While it is in the bank’s interest to stimulate

spending for the bank’s revenue and the greater good of
the economy, it is important to exercise caution so that
we do not spend beyond our means. At the end of the
day, everyone suffers, when debt is accumulated and not
cleared off. I personally do not change my furniture once a
year for the festive season. My couch has been with me for
a good 16 years, and it still looks splendid and functions

by design
well. I am a strong believer in quality over quantity. As
such, most of my furniture has accompanied me around
the world, to different job postings in different cities. My
advice is that you should invest in a good piece of furniture
and maintain it well, not only is it more economical in the
long run, it is also more environmentally friendly as there
is less waste.

The board table is made of high After all, it is in the Islamic teaching (and I’m sure it is
quality crafted teak wood from Brunei. MORSJAYA ELECTRICAL | Lighting & Fan Specialist
similar in other faiths) to exercise prudence and to No 5, 6, 7 & 8 Bangunan Hj Othman, Kg Pengkalan Gadong, B S Begawan
spend on what is deemed necessary. T 244 8469 / 244 8470 F 244 8471
 BHC | JULY 2012 55

Q | What do you mean by a life insurance plan that is not

restricted to the elite?

A | For as little as $15 per month, you can be covered for

$50,000, should anything happen to you. Therefore there
is really no excuse for you to neglect this important part
of your family’s future.

Q | Can people outside of the Islamic Faith benefit from

the home loan facilities provided by BIBD?

A | Absolutely! Our service is open. We operate in a fair

system to Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

Q | When deciding on home financing, how is an Islamic

financial institution different from a commercial bank?

A | First of all, it is our obligation to be honest and

transparent with our clients from the start and to not
make any changes to the terms and conditions later on.
One of the key differences between Islamic financial
institutions and conventional institutions is that the
former are not governed solely by profitability. You may
call this conservative, but it is our duty as Islamic financial
institutions to grant customers financing which they
are able to repay. And when unforeseen circumstances
arise making it difficult for the customer to repay his or
her obligation, we examine the case and if it is deemed
legitimate, we try to find a solution.

It is important for you to understand the philosophy of

Islamic Finance before any of your dealings with us. An
Islamic Financial institution needs to adhere to a set of
strict guidelines, which state that the money we invest must
not go into any unethical business practices such as arms
and ammunition, breweries or casinos. Our investments
benefit infrastructure such as schools, pharmaceutical
companies and businesses that help improve the well-
being of the society.

Q | What are some of BIBD’s key products that

homeowners should know about?

A | When it comes to what BIBD has to offer to

homeowners, it will be more comprehensive to look at the
BIBD Group as a whole.

While the BIBD bank provides basic short and long term
Saving, Personal Financing & Finance and Home Finance
facilities, our sister company Takaful Brunei provides a
comprehensive insurance package, from Life to General
coverage that does not just service the elite.

Every home needs to be insured against possible theft

and fire, every breadwinner needs to prepare the family
against unforeseen circumstances, so that life could go on
should anything happen to him or her.
 56 WHERE TO BUY | CLASSIC FURNITURE 57
5 BHC | JULY 2012

7
6

Classic FURNITURE
4

10

3 9

PRODUCTS PRODUCTS

1. Green Sofa 3+2+1, BND 3688, Dat-Co 2. Leather Classic Sofa Set 3+1, BND1,500, Sengkurong Furniture 4. Chair BND 900 | Runner BND 160 | Cushion Cover BND 59, Crimson Square 5. Nieri Chair, BND 3100, Thomson
3. Simon Chair by Camerich, BND 735, Haus Living Concepts Furniture 6. 18 & 24k Genuine Gold Leaf Teakwood Sofa, BND 750 7. Lazyboy Pinnacle, BND 1553 (Sale Price),
Home Suite Home 8. SPIF-293 Coffee Table, BND 499, Sopan Furniture 9. Black Vintage Design Wing Chair,
BND 825, SAMO 10. Green Wing Chair, BND 799, Neometro
 A PUBLICATION OF BRUNEI PRESS SDN BHD

Book your Hari Raya

Home Catering Early!
Differentiate your Hari Raya Open House!
We Offer Full Service Catering:
• Experienced Waiters
• Professional Setup
• Provision of Counter Tables, Equipment & Free Delivery
• Customized Menu Available on request

From $10.80 per pax

No. 20, Spg 12-26, Kg Rimba, Jln Tungku Link, Gadong T 673-242 2466 | 673-244 0171

"Malay, Thai, Indian and Western Cuisines for Open

Houses, Private Parties, Corporate Events, VIP Service
or Office Functions. Flexible catering services."

Batu Bersurat 2453 878 | Serusop 2453 879 | Catering 7184 878

The countdown to Ramadhan has begun. By popular request, the Food Guide Ramadhan
Special is back! We bring you our latest recommendations for sungkai, popular delicacies,
healthy practices during this holy month and recipes for the coming Eid.

Promote your Ramadhan offerings in this issue of Food Guide!

For more information call:
Cecelia 875 1131 | Riyanna 862 0586 | Shima 889 9992
Bring Our Popular
The Food Guide Ramadhan issue will be inserted in Borneo Bulletin on Thursday, 19 July 2012.
International Dishes
To Your Home!
Book your Hari Raya order today!
Call 242 4168
60 PLACES THAT INSPIRE | THE EMPIRE HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB BHC | JULY 2012 11
61

GOLDEN SPLENDOUR
62 PLACES THAT INSPIRE | THE EMPIRE HOTEL & COUNTRY CLUB

Room Interior Dress up McHouse Interior Decor

 64 RESOURCE INDEX

HOME INSURANCE RESTAURANT & CATERING

Morsjaya Electrical (pg 52) Etiqa (pg 17) Red Canopy (pg 58)
279 2453 223 3474 245 3878/ 718 4878
ADVERTISING R&T Electronic Enterprise (pg 17) Insurans Islam Taib (pg 39) iLotus Restaurant (pg 58)
223 7248 223 3090 / 222 3010 242 2466
Sunlit Advertising (pg 30)
245 3666 TSK Sdn Bhd (pg 23) HOTEL Millennium Fast Food &
245 1004 Restaurant (pg 58)
The Empire Hotel and
Country Club 242 4168
AEC Sdn Bhd (pg 46, 47) FLOORING 241 8888
Secret Recipe (pg 58)
244 9431 AmHome Flooring (pg 62) 245 7123
242 1544 INTERIOR DESIGN
Ikon Design ROOFING / HOUSE FRAMING
Arki-Konsept (pg 18) FRAMING 233 7995
245 5420 BlueScope Lysaght (B)
Alley Frame-Maker (pg 6, 37) Hiap Guan (pg 35) Sdn Bhd (pg 49)
223 3620 265 1825 244 7155

NBT Brunei FURNITURE Nobel Design Sdn Bhd Hasmit Roofing (pg 30)
244 8688 244 0993 242 1594
Dat-Co Design (pg9 - 13, 34)
TCY Motors (pg 5) 265 4251 Mc House Interior Decor
245 4406 / 245 4408 SWIMMING POOL
244 2333
Zalin Wood Art and Furniture
(pg 18, 25) Icarus Sdn Bhd (pg 43)
BAKERY 233 1392
266 2478
KITCHEN DESIGN CONSULTANCY
Le Apple (pg 43)
Sengkurong Furniture TILES & RAW MATERIALS
244 7885/6 (pg 55, 62) Golden Home Kitchen (pg
266 1735 29) 223 3050 Encore
223 3232
Home Suite Home (pg 56, 62)
Aussino (pg 25, 62) 223 2381 LIFESTYLE Syarikat Gaya Reka (pg 24)
242 1763 223 3728
Neo Metro Furniture (pg 29, 56, 62) Crimson Square (pg 37, pg 56)
BRICKS, MARBLES & TILES 233 4777 241 7617

Hari Raya Issue! email your pictures, phone no. & address to editor@ButraHome.com
Ong Marble Trading Co. (pg 42) SAMO Furniture (pg 62) Euro Classic (pg 41)
233 3550 223 4245 243 1119

Sopan Enterprise (pg 56, 62) Haus Living Concepts Have your home featured in BHC Magazine's August:
233 7338 (pg 55, 62)
SPAD (pg 17, 27) 242 6001
242 3747 Thomson Furniture
(pg 21, 23, 24, 40, 56)
UEM Builders Berhad (pg 54) 265 2080 LOGISTICS
279 1736
Tiong Jaya Furniture (pg 22) Brunei Transporting
CARPENTRY 267 1999 Company (pg 29)
223 1621
Carpenter Alfie
892 4819 HARDWARE
MEDIA
Bian Hoe Sdn Bhd
CARPETS & RUGS 244 8811 Brunei Press (pg 53, 57)
245 1468
Khan's Carpet & Rugs (pg 16, Goldmyne
41 & 62) 242 1491 PIANO
245 6610 / 882 8452
Low San Hardware (The Tool Yippy Tune Music School
Mohan's Carpet Palace Box) (pg 27) (pg 34)
(pg 21, 40) 233 6646 718 1698
233 3550 / 244 8677
HOME FINANCE PERFUMES & COSMETICS
CEMENT
Butra HeidelbergCement (pg 47) BIBD (pg 50 – 52, 54) Paloma
223 8181 245 6958
277 1395
Maybank (pg 31) PEST CONTROL
CURTAINS & BLINDS 222 6462
Rentokil (pg 48)
Chua Interior Furnishing Co (pg 44) 242 1690
223 5796 Standard Chartered
265 8000
Fabrica (pg 14, 37, 40, 62) PROPERTY
267 2688 HSBC 717 2111/ 717 0261
SPAD (pg 17, 27)
Home Deco 242 3747

Happy Star (pg 22) Valor (pg 28)

242 7159 / 245 5547 222 2288 / 242 2511
888 8713

*Portrait of His Majesty on Page 6 by Graham Byrne can be found at Alley Frame Maker
Supporting the sustainable development
of Brunei’s home industry with strong
foundation since 1996.

BUTRA HEIDELBERGCEMENT SDN BHD

Lot 3, Serasa Industrial Area, Mura BT1738,
P.O. Box 153, Muara BT1128, Brunei Darussalam
Tel: +673-2771395-8
Fax: +613-2771404
Email: bhz@bruneicement.com
www.bruneicement.com