MUHIBAH September|October 2016

roya l b ru n e i a ir l in e s | S ep tember - October 20 16

A Chan ged Vei n Thail and

Ho me Away United Kingdom

P ul l i n g Thread Singapore

B eyo n d The B un gy New Zeal and

Cloud Cit y Hong Kong, PRC

BY ROYA L B R U N E I A I R L I N E S | S e pt e mb er - Octob e r 2 01 6

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IN THIS ISSUE

26

08 18

54 60

COVER Dusk in Bangkok, Thailand.

AWARD FOR BEST MAGAZINE Indian International Journalism Festival 2011

Editorial Board Advisor Royal Brunei Airlines Head, Corporate Communications Azhani Abu Daniel Editorial Hj Omar Hj Jaafar, Muaz Roslan, Mahyuddin Zulkipli

Print Production Brunei Press Sdn. Bhd., Brunei Darussalam

Editorial & Production General Manager Jacqueline WM Wong Editor Anis Ramli Editorial Assistant Kimberly MY Low Studio Director Lau Weng Leong Creative Director Michele Tee Digital Media Designer Tang Sze Yik Imaging Colourist June Lim Senior Account Executive Chu Pung Ping Coordinator Sa’adiah Hj Abas

Publishing & AdSales Digital Impressions Lot 20010, Taman Alam Jalan Telanai, Beribi BE1118 Bandar Seri Begawan Brunei Darussalam T: +673 2654 851 F: +673 2650 276 E: muhibah@digital-impressions.org

Imagery & PrePress DI Expressions Sdn. Bhd., Malaysia

FEATURES 08

A Changed Vein Bangkok’s Chao Phraya gets revived.

18

Home Away Brown’s Hotel, London.

26

Pulling Thread Uncovering Peranakan needlework, Singapore.

32

Beyond The Bungy Slow travel in New Zealand.

42

Cloud City The Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong.

MUHIBAH is published by Digital Impressions. All rights reserved.

Copyright by Royal Brunei Airlines. Unsolicited materials will be returned only if accompanied by a self-addressed envelope and sufficient return postage. While every reasonable care is taken by the editor, no responsibility is assumed for the return of unsolicited material. The contents of this magazine are entirely the personal views of the author(s) and/or contributors and do not in any way reflect the views or opinions of the publisher.

The publisher disclaims all and any liability to any person arising from the printing, sale or use of the materials in this magazine.

The Editorial team reserves the right to edit and/or rewrite all materials according to the needs of the publication upon usage.

MUHIBAH is complimentary for passengers on Royal Brunei Airlines. It is also available on subscription at BND7 per copy, excluding postage.

Alternatively, log on www.muhibah.com.bn for e-MUHIBAH.

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32 42

70

David Kirkland/Brunei Tourism

62

48 48

Best of Brunei Traditional Sweet Treats.

Keistimewaan Brunei Manisan Tradisi Asia.

LIFESTYLE 54

Motoring Ford Kuga

56

In Person Richard Bertinet

58

The Buzz What’s New

60

Take 5 Jakarta

62

Travel Diary

WELCOME ABOARD 05

CEO’s Message

06

Inside RB

64

Selamat Datang

66

Brunei International Airport

67

Traveller’s Guide

68

Route Map & Destinations

70

Abode of Peace

58

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

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WELCOME ONBOARD CEO’S MESSAGE

SKYTRAX Top 10 Most Loved Airlines 2016!

Dear Guests of RB, Welcome aboard Royal Brunei Airlines!

Whether you’re travelling for leisure or business, we wish you a very pleasant trip. Rest assure that our team, both on the ground and in the air, will do their utmost to make sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

I am delighted to share that RB has achieved a Top 10 ranking in the latest Skytrax’s Most Loved Airlines 2016 survey. To be listed among the Top 10 Most Loved in the business is an achievement the entire Team at RB is extremely proud of. We would like to thank you, our customers, for your continuous support and recognition of the improvements we have made in our product offering and services. I express my sincere gratitude to our staff for their dedication and hard work on the ground and in the air that has allowed us to reach this very exciting milestone.

At RB, we are always looking for ways to provide the best to our customers, such as with the recent introduction of RB Impian – streaming entertainment system on new A320 aircraft, new services to Zhengzhou, codeshare partnership with China Eastern Airlines and Hong Kong Airlines, and seasonal charter services to Nanning. We look forward to continuing to surprise and delight our customers.

On that note, we are pleased to advise that due to popular demand, we will be increasing our flights to Ho Chi Minh City to 6 times a week effective

Check out eMuhibah at www.flyroyalbrunei.com Be a fan on

28 November, 2016. The increase in services signifies RB’s commitment to developing services around the region and providing our loyal customers with more choices.

Last but certainly not least, I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to Captain Jaidin Timbang, Captain Sebastian Newn, Captain Khalidkhan Asmakhan and Captain Pg Hj Abdullah Pg Othman for being conferred The Most Honourable Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei – 3rd Class (S.M.B), as well as Captain Saiful Bahrin Bahar, Captain Sharifah Czarena Syed Hashim, Senior Flight Officer Sariana Nordin and Senior Flight Officer Dk Nadiah Pg Kashiem for being conferred The Most Blessed Order of Setia Negara Brunei – 4th Class (P.S.B) by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

Thank you for choosing to fly and grow with us.

Always a Betterfly with Royal Brunei.

Warmest regards, Karam Chand Chief Executive Officer

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SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

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WELCOME ONBOARD INSIGHTS

INSIDE RB Roundup of Royal Brunei Airlines happenings.

BERSAMA RAKYAT EVENT

The Brunei Times

RB was honoured to have taken part in the annual “Bersama Rakyat” event organised in conjunction with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 70th Birthday. The event was held on 24 July, 2016 in Bandar Seri Begawan.

CAREER TALK AND EXHIBITIONS From July to August, RB took part in several career exhibitions and talks organised by the Ministry of Education. The events were at Sayyidina Hassan Secondary School, Sayyidina Hussein Secondary School and Sultan Omar Ali Saifuddin College. RB’s first female captain, Captain Czarena, also presented a motivational talk at Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan Science College on 28 July, 2016.

CADET PILOT SIGNING On 26 July, 2016 RB signed on Harith Fakhrusy Syakirin Awg Rusli as its latest cadet pilot. The signing ceremony took place at the Royal Brunei Recreation Club. This brings to 175 the total number of Bruneians who has been selected for RB’s Cadet Pilot Program.

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RB CELEBRATES HARI RAYA RB marked Hari Raya Aidilfitri with a gathering at the Royal Brunei Recreation Club on 3 August, 2016. In attendance were management, staff and corporate friends who enjoyed a traditonal Raya spread in a festive environment.

RB PILOTS HONOURED His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam conferred state decorations on 235 recipients on 4 August, 2016 at Istana Nurul Iman. RB is proud to announce that among the recipients were eight of its RB pilots. Captain Jaidin Timbang, Captain Sebastian Newn, Captain Khalidkhan Asmakhan and Captain Pg Hj Abdullah Pg Othman were each conferred “The Most Honourable Order of Seri Paduka Mahkota Brunei – 3rd Class (S.M.B)”, whilst Captain Saiful Bahrin Bahar, Captain Sharifah Czarena Syed Hashim, Senior Flight Officer Sariana Nordin and Senior Flight Officer Dk Nadiah Pg Kashiem were conferred “The Most Blessed Order of Setia Negara Brunei – 4th Class (P.S.B)

by His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

MORE FLIGHTS TO HO CHI MINH CITY RB is pleased to announce that its service to Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam has been increased from 4 times weekly to 6 times weekly effective 28 November, 2016.

The additional flights depart Bandar Seri Begawan to Ho Chi Minh City on Mondays and Wednesdays.

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FEATURES

Changed Vein

A

Bangkok’s Chao Phraya is enjoying a renaissance.

Words ANIS RAMLI

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Bangkok River

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Tourism Authority of Thailand

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Thailand’s River of Kings, the Chao Phraya, has always been the lifeline of Bangkok locals. Like many rivers around the world, whose cities were built at river mouths and fertile valleys, Bangkok the city arose from these waters, from the 18th century Royal district to Chinatown. Along its banks are remnants of 19th century European settlements, dilapidated huts and generations-old houses on stilts, and houses of worship. For the brave of hearts willing to explore the labyrinth of lanes and narrow streets, this is an exciting world waiting to be unraveled.

So perhaps it is not surprising that in recent years, some locals are beginning to rediscover the pulse of the river. Bangkokian Phanwadee Najmah Oraphan says, “Downtown Bangkok is exciting. There is always a new mall to hang out in. But the river is becoming the place to be now. Places like The Jam Factory – it’s a breath of fresh air. You’re in Bangkok, but it’s calmer. Less harried.”

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Suwit Wongrujirawanich

The Chao Phraya isn’t one of those rivers you can actually call “pretty”. It has muddy brown waters, floating vegetation from upstream, it’s chaotic, it’s complex; and the first time visitor can be easily confused by the melee – with boats, barges and sampans all converging in one space. But a recent revival of the river landscape is slowly converting naysayers to realign their thinking.

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Tourism Authority of Thailand

FEATURES

The Jam Factory is a multi-purpose space that is attracting the hipster and boho crowd of Bangkok.

Once a warehouse, it now has a gallery, a shop, a bookstore, a restaurant and cafe, all contained within a sleek compound shadowed by a Bodhi tree. Pop-up weekend events keep the weekends interesting.

Bangkok River

Bangkok River

To get there requires you to get off the skytrain (BTS) at Saphan Taksin station, take an upriver orange-flag ferry, then hop on a cross-river boat to Klong San Market in Thonburi, once a sleepy hollow, now waking up to a throng of urbanites eager to seek the new.

“Yes, you can say Thonburi residents are slowly getting used to the attention now,” laughs Patty Lerdwittayaskul, Director of Public Relations at The Peninsula Bangkok. “When The Peninsula Bangkok first opened nearly 30 years ago in this side of Bangkok, people were surprised, because really, they see all that’s happening is only in downtown Bangkok.” Now, you could say the hotel is having the last laugh. The new IconSiam, a megamall project slated to be ready by 2017, will be right next door to the hotel. It will also be home to Thailand’s first Takashimaya.

“I don’t mean that malls are the only attraction that can bring people to this side of the river,” she continued, “but because there have been more projects coming up on the Thonburi side, it has created interest among locals and tourists to actually check out this area. They are discovering the “real” Bangkok – mom and pops shop, local markets. And the fact that the BTS has extended beyond Saphan Taksin, it makes travelling even easier.”

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Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tourism Authority of Thailand

Tourism Authority of Thailand

The Peninsula Bangkok

The Peninsula Bangkok

FEATURES

The Peninsula, positioned right by the river, is also a favourite spot for social gathering. Its Thiptara restaurant transports you to a bygone era – both through its ambience and tantalising traditional dishes. Guests dine amid the outdoors, taking refuge in the ancient teak sala pavilions sourced from Ayutthaya and reassembled on-site. On a cool night, the breeze from the river provides a welcoming reprieve from the heat of the day.

The diverse menu is an ode to Thai cuisines from all regions, while its home-style cooking provides authenticity to every dish. There are deep fried snow fish with spicy sweet and sour sauce, jumbo grilled prawns so fresh it added a further dimension to the clean flavours of the pomelo salad, and a red beef curry from the southern region whose layers of spice and nuance were carefully nurtured making the dish light instead of heavy.

Chef Chamnan Thepcana, who himself is from the south, spoke about how he learnt to make the curry from his grandmother. “Thai cooking is not complex.

But, to really get the flavours going, you’ve got to blend the spices carefully – with love. And patience. This is the same principle I bring to the kitchen when I cook.”

Guests at the hotel could never escape the romance of the river. It is no secret that The Peninsula’s uniquely W-shaped building was designed so every room had a vista of the river. In some suites, even the guest toilets open up to the snaking Chao Phraya that bisects the city. Waking up to the sight of the locals’ morning commute, a hypnotic crowd of workers, students and families, allows one a glimpse of how the waterways remain intertwined with their daily lives. “We’re always fully booked during New Year’s, because that’s when a lot of activities and celebrations are done by the river,” Patty continued.

At the hotel’s top most floor, the striking glassencased Paribatra Aviation Lounge, named after the first aircraft to be built in Thailand, is a popular venue for private soirees and marriage proposals.

Connected to the helipad, the area becomes a private viewing platform where guests can admire spectacular fireworks display which the hotel can arrange to accompany their private function. Back on terra firma, a more leisurely way to explore the river can be experienced on the hotel’s beautifully restored traditional rice barge. On this two-hour cruise, guests nibble on canapés and hors d’oeuvres as the barge meanders past historical landmarks and iconic buildings at sunset.

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The Peninsula Bangkok

The Peninsula Bangkok

The Peninsula Bangkok

P.Tendercool

P.Tendercool

P.Tendercool

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P.Tendercool

David Robinson, Director of Bangkok River Partners, set up in 2015 to oversee the river revival project, weighs in, “Top of mind for us was how we improve the (river) area without gentrification. There is renewed interest in ‘old town’ Bangkok from developers. In the next couple of years the number of hotel rooms will grow to over 5,000 and luxury apartments to more that 5,700. The IconSiam development will mean that people living west of the river no longer have to travel into Siam. It will of course be wonderful for those living in the area as well as travellers staying at one of the many riverside hotels.

P.Tendercool

“In our view, it’s about balance. More people living and visiting the area will be good for people who have lived and worked in the area for generations, as long as we can remain community-centric. We hope to influence land and property owners to ensure these people are not squeezed out as new projects locate to the riverside. We want property owners to preserve and repurpose old buildings rather than replace them with new. A good example of this is The Jam Factory. A second development is about to be established in the east bank, behind the Portuguese Embassy.”

Since Bangkok River Partners was established they have launched the www.bangkokriver.com website and social media pages, and hosted a series of events designed to build the area around the river as a major public gathering place for tourists and locals. Reaching out to local residents and businesses, they have also established a “Creative District”, combining the historic riverside districts of Klongsan and Bangrak, which now is a burgeoning arts scene neighbourhood. Galleries such as Speedy Grandma and P.Tendercool attract visitors both for their unique names as well as their thought-provoking pieces, the latter being a bespoke furniture maker like no other.

Robinson mulls over the changes that have come with the project. “This is an ongoing initiative with many challenges and opportunities. We hope to work with the Thai government and foreign embassies to revitalise the riverside communities, improve the environment, protect historic buildings, and attract creative individuals and businesses to the district. Greener streets, better transport and more artisans and craftsmen are all important to ensure the Chao Phraya River is a great place to visit for Bangkokians, leisure and business travellers.”

Royal Brunei Airlines flies Bangkok 8x weekly.

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

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FEATURES

HO AWAY

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ME Brown’s Hotel in Mayfair is as English as it can get, but with a contemporary twist.

Words ANIS RAMLI Images ROCCO FORTE HOTELS

Had it not been for the telltale trace of turpentine wafting through the air as the elevator doors open to the first floor, no one would have guessed that a massive renovation work was underway at one of the most important suites at Brown’s Hotel – the Kipling Suite. Workers in white overcoats, pockmarked with paint, their faces covered with masks, walk with measured precision as they navigate the room that, while it measures 190 sqm, is now a narrow maze of bunched up bespoke furniture and antique furnishings.

One worker had his attention on the ceiling, applying plaster to enhance the antique Alabaster chandelier. Another was busily polishing the new oak floors. And while the two-bedroom suite doesn’t quite reflect its massive size presently, one can tell that everyone was eager to get the works done sooner rather than later.

All these efforts – which were unveiled in April – was more than just to honour the celebrated British author who was thought to have penned The Jungle Book at Brown’s (his handwritten letter on Brown’s writing paper is framed and takes pride of place at the suite’s entrance lobby). The attention to detail, the classy mix of old and new – they are all a

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reaffirmation of Brown’s Director of Design’s, Olga Polizzi, ethos in creating a home-awayfrom home feel for the hotel while never letting its history slip away.

Located in the heart of London’s most Royal district, Mayfair, guests will never find a more prestigious address than Brown’s, with key shopping streets such as Bond Street and Regent Street within walking distance, as well as the major theatres. Brown’s Hotel is also part of the Rocco Forte family of luxury hotels, each tailored to the city it’s in – from dining to service to design – creating a unique blueprint that guests will remember for a long time.

Kipling was just one among a long list of distinguished guests that have stayed at the hotel. Another frequent visitor was Agatha Christie, who referenced the hotel in her book At Bertram’s Hotel. Alexander Graham Bell made his first test phone call in the UK from the hotel to the then general manager’s home, Henry Ford. And yes, you would be right to guess that this was the same Ford that gave the world its first car. Theodore Roosevelt, who would later become the 26th US President, stayed at Brown’s in 1886 and walked to his wedding from here.

Brown’s also became the official court of the Greek Royal family when, in 1924, King George II of Hellenes went into exile as Greece became a republic. Incidentally, the Hellenic Suite, named in his honour – a combination of a large living room and separate sleeping area – has a comfortable yet elegant loft feel to it, making long-term stays ideal. The angora throws are there not just for props, but placed purposefully; as are the books with classic titles (think Kipling, Dickens and P.G. Wodehouse) that make for easy reading.

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Perhaps it is this classy contemporary interpretation of a classic historical hotel that has endeared Brown’s to many of today’s guests. The hotel itself is a glorious amalgamation of 11 Georgian townhouses, expanded throughout the years from just a one-house hotel back in 1837. So while Steven the doorman may look like a character straight off a Jane Austen novel, in his handsome tailcoat and Beaver hat, the look comes together as it gives guests the sense of place that they are in London and this is England.

Just like the interior design of the rooms and suites, guests experiences are very much ensconced in the best of British and local hospitality. Those who stay in the top suites – the Kipling, Dover or Hellenic Suites – have the privilege of the staff help in arranging say,

a personal tour of the Paul Smith boutique on Albemarle Street or an appointment with the manager at Peter Harrington Rare Books on Dover Street. Other nice touches include complimentary garment pressing, packing and unpacking service, a one-way airport transfer and a treatment at their spa.

The spa though small, with only three treatment rooms, nonetheless succeeds at providing an intimate service. At the forefront of its treatments is the Rocco Forte Rituals using Forte Organics, the company’s new branded bio-cosmetic line. Made in Italy

by Effegi Lab, the products feature organic, natural and active Sicilian ingredients – many of which have been hand-picked from Brown’s sister resort, Verdura in Sicily. The Back Ritual treatment is a further example of how Brown’s continue to focus on

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authentic experiences while remaining true to the traditional essence of relaxation. The treatment begins with a foot soak, then you lie down to receive an apricot back scrub to smooth the back, before a rich herbal compress cream is applied and the treatment finishes off with a luxurious back massage.

Of course, no stay at Brown’s would be complete without sampling its legendary Afternoon Tea at The English Tea Room.

Don’t risk being on the wait list, especially on the weekends, as every other Londoner and tourist will make a beeline for this fabled pastime. Settle into a vintage wingchair upholstered in bright-coloured fabrics and select from a list of 17 tea selection before tucking into an array of sandwiches, scones, cakes and pastries. The scones here are

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baked to perfection, made even more divine paired with real Cornish clotted cream – so thick, it tastes almost like ice cream!

Back in the Kipling Suite, there is a sense that the past and present have come together.

And this is where Brown’s shines best: celebrating English culture and design while embracing its history to forge forward.

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FEATURES

Peranakan Museum

01

Pulling Thread The lost tradition of Baba Nyonya embroidery and needlework is revived at The Peranakan Museum.

Words REZA AMRY

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01 Table cover.

02 Woman’s ankle boots.

Peranakan Museum

02

The cosmopolitan world and intriguing history of the Peranakan Chinese comes alive at the Peranakan Museum in Singapore this month, as 200 spectacular, intricately-crafted objects of beads, gold threads and silk embroideries are displayed at the Nyonya Needlework: Embroidery and Beadwork in the Peranakan World exhibition.

Millions of beads, metres of silk and metallic threads, and hours and hours of handcrafted artistry, with many seldom-seen objects from Singapore’s National Collection are seen for the first time, attesting to 30 years of dedicated collecting by Singapore’s museums. Singapore now holds the largest collection of Nyonya needlework in public hands.

This bespoke showcase also displays some of the earliest dated embroidered and beaded objects in the world from the renowned Rijksmuseum and the National Museum of World Cultures in the Netherlands. John Teo, General Manager of the Peranakan Museum, explains, “This exhibition, which was five years in the making, is the first in the world dedicated to a comprehensive showcase of beaded and embroidered Peranakan works of art. Coupled with important new research about regional styles and techniques, this show will deepen scholarship around this South East Asian cross-cultural art form.

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FEATURES

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Peranakan Museum

03 Eight-panel table screen.

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04

Asian Civilisations Museum

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The Peranakan community, straddling influences from all over, demonstrates great inventiveness and forward-looking thinking in creating and embracing design and stylistic influences in their handcrafted decorative and fashion textiles. The Peranakan Museum is proud to spotlight their bold originality through the museum’s rich collection, built up over more than three decades, and complemented by objects from partner museums and private collectors.”

One of the key highlights is a beaded wedding bed valence from the National Museum of World Cultures in the Netherlands, which is the earliest reliably dated embroidery in the exhibition – made around 1848 in Indonesia. It shows early influence and adaptation from Chinese embroidery. The public also stand to be enchanted by a European-styled, glass-beaded table cover from the 1900s, with wedding toast verses stitched in English along its borders, and magnificent ankle boots with gold embroidery of a style worn by women and men at the turn of the 20th century. This extensive display in the exhibition will debunk conventional perceptions of the beloved traditional artistry that we are used to in the South East Asia region that Peranakan fashion is not just beaded slippers and wedding purses.

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04 Belt.

05 A pair of curtain tie-backs.

06 Man’s slippers.

07 Woman’s shoulderpiece.

National Museum of Singapore

Previously unexamined and lesser-known techniques of Nyonya needlework are also given a spotlight at this exhibition. The show is divided into five sections that range from Emblems and Symbols; Creative Hands: Makers and Methods and Materials; to the diverse styles of Indonesia, Malacca, Singapore and Penang. “Nyonya Needlework showcases the pathways of creativity in this Peranakan art form. Although needlework was very much rooted in a traditional context, embroiderers often borrowed and “translated” techniques and designs from other cultures and other media (including batiks, ceramics, and metalwork), introducing novelty and dynamism into the art. The overlaps in regional styles of beadwork and embroidery convey a shared sense of identity; at the same time, their diversity expresses their local connections. We hope visitors will enjoy the refinement and detail in these works, and discover the innovative spirit and craftsmanship, as well as the stories of the Peranakan Chinese embedded in this cross-cultural art form, and be inspired to create their own”, said Dr Cheah Hwei-Fen, lead curator of the exhibition.

Together with Dr Cheah, the museum has produced a profusely illustrated catalogue to accompany the exhibition. Nyonya Needlework: Embroidery and Beadwork in the Peranakan World will run until 26 March, 2017.

Royal Brunei Airlines flies Singapore 2x daily.

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Peranakan Museum

National Museum of Singapore

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Tourism Holdings

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The To get to know New Zealand, sometimes you have to do less, travel slow and take in more.

Words GRACE LOOI Images TOURISM NEW ZEALAND

01 The deep waters of Milford Sound reflect the landscapes like a perfect mirror.

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Great Lake Taupo

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New Zealand is the indisputable thrill-seeking capital of the world. And if you want a rush, there’s no place better on the planet. But if you want to get off the bus, smell the native flowers and eat kai (food) fresh from the river or bush, you will be the richer for it.

Slow travel in New Zealand starts four hours south of Auckland in a deep and tranquil pool where the sun shines a spotlight on the surrounding bush. Fly-fishing may be the ultimate slow sport and there is no better place for mindfulness than standing in the Tongariro River, stalking a thumping great trout. Equally, there is no better way to get to know Kiwis than sitting in a local cafe with coffee in hand, talking tackle with local anglers. The historic town of Turangi is the trout-fishing capital of the world. Across the road from the river is Lake Taupo where fat rainbow trout are in abundance.

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02 Fly-fishing may be the ultimate slow sport and there is no better place for mindfulness than standing in a New Zealand River, stalking a thumping great trout.

03 Choose your canoe adventure from white water rapids to serenely calm lakes.

04 Kai Waho’s Tom Loughlin, of the Tuwharetoa tribe, takes visitors on authentic cultural experiences focusing on food, culture and tikanga (customs).

In the South Island, Lochy River, near Queenstown, offers fishers a different kind of adrenalin hit. There are only two ways into the river – by helicopter or boat across Lake Wakatipu. Notoriously skittish wild brown trout and rainbow trout shelter behind rocks in the clear waters that run through the folds of the Eyre Mountains. A local guide is essential.

Julian Apse

The antidote to fast living is slow food. And travellers who sign up for the Kai Waho Experience – translated as ‘outdoor cuisine’ – will experience firsthand the bounties of the bush and stream slowly steamed, seared and served beneath a star-crusted sky.

Tom Loughlin, of the Tuwharetoa iwi (tribe) takes visitors on authentic cultural experiences focusing on food, culture and tikanga (customs) of the sub-alpine wilderness. Food includes a picnic in the woods and a banquet cooked on volcanic rocks.

This is truly the backblocks of New Zealand. Access is by helicopter or four-wheel drive across rugged tracks.

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Mark Chipperfield

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Frederike Otten

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Equally secluded is Blue Duck Station, a remote eco-resort surrounded by the ancient forests of the Whanganui National Park in the Central Plateau’s Ruapehu District. Run by passionate local farmer, conservationist and historian, Dan Steele and his wife, Sandy, the Station is half working farm, half conservation park with a well-appointed lodge that sleeps up to eight as well as backpacker accommodation.

Guests can immerse themselves in the everyday life of the farm with a bush safari that includes a gentle kayak down to where the blue ducks roost. There are also hiking trails out to sights such as the Kaiwhakauka waterfall and kayaking down the meandering river with a jet-boat pick up for the return journey.

New Zealanders have a strong entrepreneurial streak so it’s not surprising to discover some bright spark took a disused railway line, and a bunch of golf carts and built a thriving business. Forgotten World Adventures is the ultimate slow train, running from Okahukura in the Central Plateau to Whangamomona, a place that should have fallen off the map, but hasn’t. The town (population: 40), which declared itself a republic 25 years ago, can be accessed by road, but it’s much more fun to take the golf cart.

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05 Blue Duck Station is a remote eco-resort surrounded by the ancient forests of the Whanganui National Park.

06 Forgotten World Adventures allows visitors to pilot modified rail carts or pedal rail bikes along disused railway tracks.

07 The carts at Forgotten World have been adapted to run on rails and are self-driven.

Forgotten World Adventures

Forgotten World Highway

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River Valley - Whanganui River Dories

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The carts have been adapted to run on rails and are self-driven.

There are sheep, alpacas and wild berries along the way and you can stop at any time during the eight-hour journey. At the end of the 83-kilometre line is the Whangamomona Hotel, which claims to be the most remote country hotel in New Zealand. The Whanganui River is one of New Zealand’s most beautiful waterways. Rich in history, it was heavily trafficked in pre-European times and offers an off-road glimpse of sites where early Maori settled. Most river travellers paddle their own canoes, but those less fit can now enjoy a more languid trip with extra legroom.

River dories are wooden boats with an up-swept bow and stern and a flat bottom, similar to old Portuguese fishing boats. Trips last from three to five days, starting from Taumarunui, Ohinepani or Whakahoro and finishing at Pipiriki.

The best way to see a country slowly, of course, is on Shanks’ Pony, aka your own two legs. New Zealand is a walking person’s happy place. There are long walks, short walks, steep walks and deep walks.

The Great Walks of the South Island are legendary. But some are strictly for the fit.

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Ngai Tahu Tourism

Hollyford Track, in the heart of the Fiordland National Park, is slightly less strenuous, but just as grand as its more famous sisters – Heaphy, Milford and Routeburn. The scenery is native beech forest, full of ferny undergrowth with streams to ford and birds to spot. And spectacular waterfalls. The hardy carry their own gear and stay at Department of Conservation huts. For those who want the wonder of the walk, local tribe Ngai Tahu run glamping tours, with gorgeous lodges.

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08 The Whanganui River’s waterways is best enjoyed aboard a river dory.

Miles Holden

09 Explore native forests and discover fascinating stories with local guides.

10 Located in the spectacular Fiordland National Park the dramatic Hollyford Track is one of the greatest guided walks in New Zealand.

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Destination Wairarapa

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While bush walks are beautiful, so are walks across New Zealand hill-country farms, staying in shearers’ sheds or farmworker’s cottages. The country is criss-crossed with farmland walks that cover tussock, coastal cliffs and sheep and cattle stations. They are a great way to explore privately-owned parts of the country, and taste home-cooked scones, lamb on the barbecue and local produce. Tora Coastal Walk in the southern Wairarapa is an award-winning three-day walk across ridge-tops and beaches.

Sauntering rather than speeding through New Zealand is balm for the stressed-out soul. You see more and learn more. So keep calm and smell the roses.

Royal Brunei Airlines flies Melbourne daily for connections to New Zealand.

11 View reefs, lagoons sand dunes at Castlepoint Scenic Reserve in Wairarapa.

Mike Heydon

12 Tora Coastal Walk in the southern Wairarapa is an awardwinning three-day walk across ridge-tops and beaches.

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Cloud CITY Hong Kong’s tallest building, the ICC, is also home to the world’s highest Ritz-Carlton and brings pizzazz to the sedate Western Kowloon skyline.

Words EMMA RAMSAY Images THE RITZ-CARLTON HONG KONG

In The Empire Strikes Back, there is a scene where Han Solo pilots the Millennium Falcon into an ethereal domed and mushroom-like structure called Cloud City. A single magnificent edifice, Cloud City rises above the clouds, its tall spires disappears into the misty blur that surrounds it.

Checking into the Ritz-Carlton Hong Kong is akin to that experience. Housed in the International Conference Centre, the island’s tallest building, and occupying the 102nd to 118th floors, the hotel also gets claim to being the world’s tallest.

There is a lot to love about the ICC, and simultaneously, the Ritz-Carlton. It has direct connections to the Hong Kong International Airport (20 minutes) via the Airport Express from Kowloon Station, making airport transfers a breeze when you’re a guest. Elements Mall is a 1-million-square-feet haven for shopping with many of Hong Kong’s flagship stores calling it home here. Among them include Jimmy Choo, Miu Miu, Prada and Valentino.

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Perhaps the most enduring aspect of the Ritz-Carlton is its location.

Every room and restaurant offers a vantage point of Hong Kong’s harbour and impressive skyline. Having breakfast at The Lounge and Bar is a study in self-control. Not so much for the veritable spread they have every day – from congee to fresh pastries and fresh juices – but the stunning view it offers. For the first time guest, the walk down the escalators that bring you to the restaurant lobby can be a breathtaking moment. Floor to ceiling windows that curve around part of the lobby allows for natural light to come in, but its picturesque vista – of boats speeding across the harbour and the green outlaying islands – is enough to make you forget you’re in Hong Kong. And for that reason too, the window seats are always popular with guests, so take a number.

The Ritz-Carlton, of course, is not a newcomer to Hong Kong. It first opened in 1993, located then in Central, before closing its doors in 2008. Re-opening three years later at its new location in West Kowloon marks more than just a re-entry into Hong Kong’s hotel property. It is rewriting the script of a property that is embracing the dynamic changes facing Hong Kong.

This can clearly be seen from the décor and interiors. The hotel espouses a modern East-meets-West design throughout. There are paintings by Chinese artists that adorn the lobby, public places and

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rooms. The vibe is one of funk and sensibility. Rooms are a blend of Orientalist minimalism with contemporary accents; Asian art pieces can be found in some corners while hi-tech in-room amenities make the room modern. And on those days where you just want to lounge in the room, it feels almost surreal to see the clouds swirling outside the window. It really does feel you’re floating sky high in Cloud City.

There is also the new 11-room Ritz-Carlton Spa with luxurious treatments by ESPA. Here again, the hotel plays up on its enviable location, with views of the harbour and beyond greeting guests pre- and post treatment. Here is where many of the local high society ladies look for serenity to escape the madness of the city. Touted as an urban escape in the sky, it is indeed a tranquil getaway for guests and visitors. One of its popular treatments, the lava shell body massage, is an indulgent therapy that combines loosening out the body’s aching muscles with a warm lava stone.

It is a great end to any stay in Hong Kong’s sky-high hotel.

Royal Brunei Airlines flies Hong Kong daily.

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FEATURES BEST OF BRUNEI

Traditional Sweet Treats

Brunei’s ode to the sweet-toothed.

Words & Images JACQUELINE WONG

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Manisan Tradisi Asia Brunei, destinasi peminat juadah pencuci mulut.

Teks & Imej JACQUELINE WONG

Traditional local cakes are tea time favourites for all Bruneians.

They are made from natural ingredients such as glutinous rice, rice our, ambulung (sago), coconut, palm sugar and eggs. From above clockwise: katilapam, tapai, penyaram and kuih kelupis.

Kuih muih tradisional merupakan kegemaran di Brunei dan diperbuat daripada bahan-bahan semulajadi seperti beras pulut, tepung beras, ambulung, kelapa, gula kelapa dan telur.

Dari atas, arah jam: Katilapam, tapai, penyaram dan kelupis.

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No one can resist desserts. In Asia especially, the repertoire of desserts ranges from sumptuous mini cakes to puddings in parcels and delectable biscuits. Much like their Western counterpart, Asian desserts make for popular tea time treats. However, they are also taken as snacks and are sometimes a meal in themselves!

In Brunei, desserts-making is an institution in its own. The art of making them is not one to be studied in classrooms but rather, through being in a living kitchen working under the watchful eye of the family matriarch. The tradition of making desserts is passed down from one generation to the next. It requires one to have patience, deft fingers, and above all, love and passion to go into making them.

That’s because Bruneian desserts are not just about the taste. They are also a feast of the eyes. Katilapam (savoury rice flour snack), tapai (sweet fermented dessert) and kelupis (glutinous rice rolls) come in delightful little dessert parcels made of banana leaves.

With patience and diligence, these parcels become tidy, neat boxes. Those with no flair for dessert-making may find themselves with something that amounts to a banana leaf rucksack!

Brunei’s local desserts are predominantly starch-based. There are sago, rice flours, glutinous rice, fermented rice yeast and

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tapioca flour. With rice being a staple of Bruneians, it’s not surprising to have rice and its variants feature in many of the recipes. Desserts made with rice flour have a unique texture and taste. They can be steamed, baked, boiled or fried, and each variety will give a different flavour to the dessert. Other ingredients that add depth and flavour to the desserts are palm sugar, coconut milk and pandan (screwpine leaf) – which is an aromatic local plant that also gives a gorgeous green tint to the desserts and sweet cakes.

Traditional biscuits are also among the snacks considered as dessert treats in Brunei. Kuih kering, makanan cincin, bahulu, sapit and cacah are local delicacies that had their humble beginnings with the people of Kampong Ayer, Brunei’s first settlement. Some biscuits, such as kuih kering, has cumin, coriander and aniseed added to it, which gives this biscuit a sharp but subtle edge. Others are unique in their making as they require moulds, such as bahulu and sapit, with some of the moulds having been in the same family for generations.

The best part about these Bruneian sweet treats is that you can get them at the local tamu (market) or supermarkets. They make great gifts and souvenirs, especially when you long for that one lasting taste of Brunei.

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Manisan dan kuih-muih di Brunei lazimnya berasaskan kanji – seperti sago, tepung beras, beras pulut, tapai, dan tepung ubi kayu. Beras adalah makanan ruji di Brunei, jadi tidak hairanlah jika beras dan ramuan berasaskan beras digunakan dalam kebanyakan resepi. Pencuci mulut yang dihasilkan dengan tepung beras mempunyai tekstur dan rasa yang unik. Rasa yang berbeza dapat dihasilkan, bergantung kepada kaedah masakan, samada dikukus, dibakar, direbus atau digoreng.

Ramuan lain yang menambah lagi keenakan kepada juadah pencuci mulut di Brunei adalah gula kelapa, santan dan daun pandan – keharumannya dan kehijauan daunnya mampu menjadi penambah selera kepada mana-mana hidangan.

Sukar untuk menolak juadah pencuci mulut.

Lebih-lebih lagi di rantau Asia yang kaya dengan pelbagai jenis kuih-muih yang mampu memikat selera sesiapa sahaja. Sama seperti di Barat, kuih-muih di rantau ini lazimnya menjadi hidangan waktu petang. Kadang kala, kuih-muih dan manisan juga boleh dijadikan snek atau sebagai hidangan utama.

Di Negara Brunei Darussalam, pencuci mulut dan manisan merupakan satu bentuk seni yang tersendiri. Dan kaedah terbaik untuk mempelajari seni ini adalah di dapur rumah dengan tunjuk ajar si ibu. Tradisi turuntemurun ini memastikan generasi baru mahir dalam menghasilkan manisan dan kuih-muih asli. Ia memerlukan kesabaran, kecekapan, dan paling utama, kasih sayang.

Kuih-muih juga antara snek yang dianggap sebagai pencuci mulut di Brunei. Kuih kering, makanan cincin, bahulu, sapit dan cacah antara resepi kuihmuih tradisi yang berasal dari penduduk Kampong Ayer, penempatan pertama di Brunei. Kuih kering mempunyai rasa yang terang tetapi tidak terlalu tajam, dan mengandungi jintan putih, biji ketumbar, dan jintan manis. Ada juga kuih yang unik dalam pembuatannya kerana menggunakan acuan khusus, seperti bahulu dan sapit, dengan sesetengah acuan yang sama digunakan sejak turun-temurun.

Pencuci mulut di Brunei mudah didapati bukan sahaja di tamu-tamu tetapi juga di pasaraya. Kuihmuih dan manisan tradisi ini merupakan pilihan terbaik untuk pengunjung yang mahu membawa pulang buah tangan, lebih-lebih lagi kerana ia mencerminkan rasa sebenar Brunei yang asli.

Jenis-jenis kuih kering tradisional Brunei (dari atas, arah jam) kaya, bahulu, jit manis, kuripit, sapit, cacah, papan dan makanan cincin (tengah).

Inilah sebabnya pencuci mulut di Brunei tidak tertumpu kepada rasanya sematamata. Setiap juadah yang disediakan juga perlu memikat mata. Katilapam, tapai dan kelupis dipersembahkan di dalam bungkusan kecil diperbuat daripada daun pandan dan pisang. Dengan kesabaran dan ketekunan, bungkusan ini dihaslkan dengan kemas dan rapi. Jika silap gayanya, yang dihasilkan mungkin kelihatan seperti guni daun pisang!

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Meet Kuga by Ford brings in exciting tweaks and a sporty look for an even sharper drive.

The Kuga is Ford’s new addition to its family of SUV range, sporting a spanking new look, improved driving dynamics, fuel efficiency and safety. The aggressive styling translates to a new honeycomb front grille in gloss black, tinted lights and privacy glass. The interior features a unique leather treatment for the seats, doors and instrument panel complete with bespoke tuxedo stitching and leather extending to the boot floor and tailgate.

This stylish Smart Utility Vehicle is even more capable, more practical and more connected, says Ford. It introduces a segment-first powered hands-free tailgate and debuts Ford’s new intelligent all-wheel drive system and Curve Control. Kuga also comes with enhanced Torque Vectoring Control for the first time, helping deliver best-in class handling.

Drivers will also be able to control audio, navigation and climate functions plus connected smartphones using simple, more conversational voice commands, with Ford’s new SYNC 3 connectivity system. Ford has drawn on more than 22,000 comments and insights gained from research clinics and surveys to ensure the new version is the most customercentric system to date. SYNC 3 delivers faster performance, simplified commands and supports five additional languages.

Simply by pushing a button and saying “I need a coffee,” “I need petrol,” and “I need to park,” drivers can locate nearby cafes, petrol stations or car parks, and find train stations, airports and hotels.

Under the hood, a new 120PS 1.5-litre TDCi diesel engine is introduced. Offered with front-wheel drive, Ford is targeting a fuel efficiency improvement for the new engine of about 5 per cent to 64.2mpg and 115g/km CO2 while producing the same power.

Also available will be a 2.0-litre TDCi diesel engine with 150PS in front-wheel drive and Ford Intelligent All Wheel Drive versions that achieve from 60.1mpg and 122g/km CO2; and a 180PS Intelligent All Wheel Drive version that delivers from 54.3mpg and 135g/km CO2.

Further refinement comes with enhanced and sophisticated body engineering that help drivers see more clearly on the road. Ford’s Adaptive Front Lighting System is available for the first time on Kuga and monitors ambient light conditions and automatically optimises visibility by adjusting the beam angle of the new bi xenon headlights to one of seven settings depending on the vehicle’s speed, steering angle and distance to an object in front.

“Sophisticated technologies like our Intelligent All Wheel Drive enhance safety and confidence for our customers,” says Ford. “Intelligent All Wheel Drive measures how the car’s wheels are gripping the road surface and can make adjustments in less than 20 milliseconds – 20 times quicker than it takes to blink.”

The new Ford Kuga is a mong five all-new or redesigned Ford vehicles that will compete in the SUV and crossover space in the next three years.

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LIFESTYLE IN PERSON

BREAD for Business Richard Bertinet is the darling of Bath, both for his bread and wonderful personality.

Tell us how you ended up in Bath.

Like any other story, it began with a girl (laughs). But let’s not get into that. It was just one of those things, you know.

I was looking for something exciting to do just coming in from France. London did not excite me the least. It was a big city, yes, but it was just like any other city. I came to Bath like any other visitor, wanting to check it out and I fell in love with it. The rest, as they say, is history.

Because it is something so socially acceptable. People can bond over bread.

In its most basic form, it’s the food of life.

Sadly, a lot of people do not know how to make bread. That’s when I decided, why not – I’ll teach bread making through my school.

If you think about it, bread is a complete staple food. I mean, yes, there’s rice, but in hard times, when you have just the basic ingredients, bread is going to be easy to make.

And you can survive on it.

You tend to be very precise about your baking methods when you’re teaching.

Some may even consider it pedantic.

Why is that?

The students are here to learn. You may see me as being hard when I insist on them doing things a certain way. But, in class, when I teach and emphasise on them learning the right way to cut a baguette, for example, it’s because I want them to remember. I want them to be able to remember to have that discipline even when they’re at home.

Because being home, by themselves, it is easy to fall back into bad habits and be lazy about certain things. But when I am “hard” on them in class, they are alert. They think. And it’s a lesson that, I hope, will stay with them forever.

In any culture, there is always bread. It can be called many other names, but always, always, there will be some type of bread on the table. Why do you think people use the phrase ‘break bread’?

When you’re not doing classes, what are you likely to do?

(Laughs). That’s a tough question because really, my school takes a lot of my time. But if I do have the time, I would

Why bread and why a Cookery School?

One of the things I missed about France is bread. Good bread. As you can see here, the breads you get at the grocers aren’t qualified to be called bread. And to me, bread is such an easy thing to do. Just three or four ingredients. It’s so simple and easy, yet many people think it’s complex.

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love to travel the world and savour different cuisines and experience different culture. I think there’s a lot to learn from other people’s culture which you can embrace it and incorporate it into your own life and work.

There are already a lot of celebrity chefs that are doing just that right now – travelling the world, embracing different cultures.

I think that we lack real professionals who really care and are genuinely passionate about food. I’m not saying that all of them are like that. But there are some who value too much about being in the limelight, or they are too busy being on TV, that they forget the crux of the matter.

We live in a society that doesn’t care about food anymore. Take bread, for example. Pick up a pack of bread and you see a whole list of ingredients on it. When in essence, bread just needs three or four basic ingredients. We all want food that is fast. Children think chicken comes in these tidy plastic boxes. We do not value our food, we do not have the humility to learn and honour those who give us the food or the produce – the farmers, the fishermen.

I think we seriously need to educate the young generation about the importance of understanding where the food comes from. When there is this understanding – honouring them and the values – then we honour ourselves. And that’s’ when the respect for food will kick in.

Are you trying to change that?

Well, I’m not going to say I’m out to change the world. But I am pretty excited about my new project. I just rolled out our sliced sourdough breads that I’m supplying to Waitrose. This has been a labour of love. I’d love to see how people react to it and I hope it’ll be the start of a journey into educating people about eating right and eating good.

Ever thought about leaving Bath?

Never. This is really a great place to live. It’s such a small community.

Everyone’s friendly to each other.

We have our own festivals and events; we’re very self-contained, yet London is not that far away if you really crave for the big lights.

The air is fresher here (in Bath), there’s a lot of greenery. I could never tire of that.

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WHAT’S

NEW

Best beauty products for flying.

AYE, ASIA The Jasmine Body Lotion by Harnn not only smells exotic, it works double duty to keep away dryness and leave skin moisturised. One of Thailand’s best homegrown products, Harnn pays homage to its Asia heritage, making this a winner.

Harnn.com

WILD ISLE If you have a brutal travel schedule, carry this roll-on by Diptyque. Eau Mohéli is an exotic and wild perfume with ylang-ylang at its most intimate, and other balmy notes warmed by the sun to keep you grounded. diptyqueparis.co.uk

TEA TIME The White Tea Facial Mist by Neal’s Yard Remedies contains ingredients such as aloe vera to calm and soothe tired skin and white tea that is rich in antioxidants. It’s the perfect product for flights as it keeps your skin hydrated and can also be used over make-up. nealsyardremedies.com

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SEA SECRETS Give your skin a drink of water with Voya’s Hydra Veil. Leave this seaweed-based mask overnight for the star ingredient, Rose of Jericho, to work its wonders. This desert plant, known for its highly adaptive moisture retention complex, works hand in hand with the seaweed extract to lock in moisture for skin that is supple and smooth.

EYE RESCUE If you don’t wish to arrive with the wrong bags upon landing, don’t forget the sensitive skin around your eyes. Zkin Organics makes a lovely Line Smoothing Serum that is 100% synthetic free!

Unlike heavy eye creams its gel formulation rapidly absorbs and is ideal for all skin types.

voya.ie

zkinorganics.com.au

GET WHIPPED Avoid chapped lips on landing with Kari Gran Lip Whip, a little pot of beauty yumminess. It contains only natural ingredients, with beeswax and camellia oil to hydrate, and a texture as smooth as fondant. Comes in both sheer and tinted shades, packed with moistureboosting goodness. karigran.com

TIMELY CLASSIC Remember Crème de la Mer, the cult classic people couldn’t get enough of?

Well the range has expanded to include a tonic, a serum and also a mask. But the original moisturiser is still loved for its hydration-boosting powers – that makes it essential in any travel kit. cremedelamer.com

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LIFESTYLE TAKE 5

There’s plenty of hidden gems to be found in this fast-paced metropolitan.

Jaunt s Images WONDERFUL INDONESIA

JAKARTA SEE

SHOP

DO If you wish to escape the traffic in Jakarta, take a trip to Pulau Seribu, which translates to “Thousand Islands”. It consists of a group around 110 islands that is an hour or two away from Marina Ancol by ferry or charters.

The myriad of tropical fishes and colourful reefs make the islands an ideal place for diving, snorkelling and fishing.

If you are into antiques, local handicrafts, traditional batik and wayang golek, head to Jalan Surabaya. For more upscale shopping, try Central Jakarta, where two of the grandest malls – Grand Indonesia and Plaza Indonesia – are located close to each other. You’ll find the usual international brands here with some great homegrown labels, too.

STAY The Shangri-La Hotel in the heart of Jakarta combines Western style with classic Javanese tradition. The batik decor in the room reminds you of the country’s heritage, while European artworks and art decor create a modern feel.

Rooms are smartly appointed with many offering panoramic view of the city’s skyline.

Royal Brunei Airlines flies Jakarta 6x weekly.

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Shangri-La Hotels and Resorts

For a quick immersion into the culture of the country, visit Taman Mini Indonesia Indah. The park encapsulates the daily lives of the 26 provinces (during 1975), complete with architecture, style of clothing, dances, and traditions in their respective pavilions. They are equipped with a stage for traditional dance and music performances, or traditional ceremonies that are mostly held on Sundays. Some even have cafeterias so that visitors can have a taste of the local cuisines.

LIFESTYLE TRAVEL DIARY

WHAT’S

ON

A world of adventure and new experiences await you when you fly with Royal Brunei Airlines. Make your trip even more memorable with free flights, seat upgrades and other privileges with Royal Skies, our frequent flyer programme.

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HARI RAYA AIDIL ADHA Also known as Hari Raya Haji, the feast of sacrifice is an important occasion in the Islamic calendar and marks the end of the annual Hajj to Makkah. Domestic animals are sacrificed before the meats are distributed to the poor and the needy.

Register on www.flyroyalbrunei.com/ royalskies

www.bruneitourism.travel

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM MALAYSIA

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

12

16-26

Sep

VAREKAI Bursting into stage at the Dubai World Trade Centre is an explosive fusion of drama and acrobatics. Cirque Du Soleil’s Varekai pays tribute to the nomadic soul. The story starts when the sky lets go a solitary young man.

We follow his journey as he takes flight in an adventure both absurd and extraordinary, travelling through a kaleidoscopic world filled with fantastical creatures.

SIBU INTERNATIONAL DANCE FESTIVAL Sarawak plays host to the fifth edition of the Sibu International Dance Festival held in various venues in the city. Over 200 artists from 11 countries will present a repertoire of the arts that includes traditional folk to classical ballet and contemporary dance, with seminars and workshops on the side for all to take part.

tixbox.com

sidfestival.com

9-13

Sep

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Sep

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6-23

Oct

MELBOURNE FESTIVAL The Melbourne Festival brings together many forms of art in a citywide celebration. From theatre to visual arts, music to dance and circus, it is a smorgasbord of choice that will leave you reeling from the sheer variety. Be sure to catch Tanderrum and Les Tambours de Feu on the opening week. www.festival.melbourne

AUSTRALIA

ROOTS & WINGS

www.facebook.com/FitnessZoneBrunei

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Sep

FIA FORMULA E HKT HONG KONG ePRIX Hosting the opening round of the championship, the FIA Formula E HKT Hong Kong ePrix is set to blaze the streets of Central Harbourfront. Grandstands will be erected along the urban circuit, alongside a specially established eVillage at Lung Wo Road that will cater to visitors with an array of attractions and entertainments.

8-9

Oct

UNITED KINGDOM

www.hkformulae.com/hk-e-prix

HONG KONG Deen van Meer © Disney

Jerudong International School (JIS) Arts Centre is proud to host the Roots & Wings Charity Concert in aid of the Special Olympics Brunei Darussalam and La Vida, a non-profit organisation for special needs children. About 150 children will take part in the event to showcase their various talents for a good cause.

ALADDIN Let Disney’s Aladdin sweep you off your feet and transport you to Agrabah in their new West End musical. Playing at the Prince Edward Theatre in London, their breathtaking sets and colourful costumes will capture your hearts. Other than timeless songs from the classic 1992 animated film, the musical will also feature new scores. www.aladdinthemusical.co.uk

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SELAMAT DATANG Selamat Datang means ‘Welcome’ in Malay, and your seamless journey begins here.

with the Eco 9-Inch personal touch screen monitors filled with great entertainment content. Each seat also comes with a USB port as well as shared power supply.

Business Class

RB Impian Inflight Entertainment

The Royal Brunei Airlines 787 Dreamliner Business Class cabin features “Contour” seats that reclines to a 180 degree flat bed, along with a plush duvet and larger pillow, offer a peaceful rest. Each seat is equiped with a 15.4 touchscreen LCD Monitor with Panasonic eX2 in-flight entertainment system; as well as in seat power connecter. The Business Class cabin lavatories are also equipped with bidets for passengers convenience.

Economy Class Comfort Royal Brunei Airlines 787 Dreamliner Economy cabin offers comfortable seats with semiarticulating recline and adjustable headrest, and with very spacious leg-rooms for passengers comfort. Each seat is intergrated

RB Impian Inflight Entertainment system gives passengers a number of entertainment options throughout their flight. A library of hit movies, classic Hollywood films and TV and audio programmes for all ages are available onboard. Refer to the Impian entertainment guide located in the seat pocket in front of you for the list of movies, TV and audio programmes. For Business Class seats; the sockets for earphones and channel/ volume remote control are located in your seat armrest. Seatback-mounted personal screens are only available on our Boeing 787s.

Elsewhere, passengers can avail our service, sit back and relax with our overhead movie screens. For more information, please contact your nearest Royal Brunei Airlines office.

JOURNEY THROUGH THE DECADES As Brunei Darussalam’s national carrier, Royal Brunei Airlines serves not only as the coming of age of this tiny Sultanate, but today cements itself as a serious competitor in the region.

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Cuisine Everything we serve has been carefully chosen for freshness and flavour. In fact, there’s nothing you can’t enjoy even when dining at 35,000 feet. Our award winning menu has been meticulously created by our Royal Brunei Catering chefs, combining both Western and Oriental flavours using the best seasonal and fresh produce available.

For our Business Class passengers on long-haul flights, you can now select your desired meal times. Our ‘Dine upon Request’ service is available throughout the flight up until 90 minutes before landing. Passengers on all classes also enjoy our ‘Food Fit to Fly by’ service menu that features healthier and lighter meal options, complemented by our award-winning cabin service from our crew.

Special Meals Royal Brunei offers a variety of tasty culinary solutions to suit our passengers’ special dietary requirements. Special meals can be

1970s

1980s

> The maiden Royal Brunei Airlines flight to Singapore left Bandar Seri Begawan on a Boeing 737-200 on 14 May, 1975.

> RB added a Boeing 737, the quick change convertible aircraft, to its fleet. This aircraft allowed for either an all-passenger or an all-cargo configuration, or a combination of both.

> Two Boeing 737 aircraft were put into service flying five times a week to Singapore, two times to Hong Kong, and seven times to Kota Kinabalu. > Services to Bangkok and Manila were added.

> RB accepted the delivery of its Boeing 757 aircraft that featured a redesigned livery combining Brunei’s traditional royal colours on 16 May, 1986.

ordered when you make your reservation; please confirm your request at least 24 hours before boarding your flight.

Alcohol-free Environment Policy Royal Brunei Airlines operates alcoholfree flights to all destinations.

Hand Luggage For your safety and comfort, you may store your hand luggage in the overhead lockers or under the seat in front of you. Please do not hesitate to ask our cabin crew for help in stowing your luggage properly. Be careful when opening the overhead luggage compartments, as items dislodged by aircraft movement may fall on you or fellow passengers.

Liquids, Aerosols and Gels (LAG) Various countries have implemented restrictions on the carriage of liquids, aerosols and gels in compliance with new guidelines set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Passengers transiting through airports and carrying any liquids, pastes and gels in containers over 100ml may be asked to dispose of the items at security checkpoints.

These restrictions may affect your ability to carry duty-free purchases onboard the aircraft.

Customers are advised to check with duty free personnel before making their purchases. All liquids, aerosols and gels must be carried in containers of no greater than 100ml/3.3oz capacity (approximately 100gm in weight) and placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag. The plastic bag must be removed from carry on baggage and presented to security

personnel at the checkpoint for inspection and separate x-ray screening.

Exceptions to the new regulations are medicines and dietary supplements needed during a flight, including baby food. Proof of need may be required.

Use of Electronic Equipment Electronic devices such as Citizen’s band (CB) radio, remote-controlled devices (such as radio controlled toys), and transmitting devices that emit radio frequencies are not to be used at any time during the flight. These devices may interfere with the aircraft’s electronic equipment, compromising aircraft safety and endangering the lives of passengers and crew.

The following devices may be used on board, except during take-off, initial climb, approach and landing; mobile phones (which must be

1990s

2000s

2010s

> RB took delivery of the first of three leased Boeing 767-200ER aircraft in June 1990 and set a long distance world record for twin-engine commercial airlines.

> RB took delivery of two new Airbus A319 aircraft in August and September 2003.

> In October 2012, RB launched a rebranding journey with a new logo and livery.

> Two more Airbus A320s were delivered in December 2003 and January 2004. > In January 2010, RB introduced Royal Brunei Holidays, a revamp of its Golden Touch Holidays, which offers passengers value-for-money holiday packages available locally and abroad.

> RB launched “A betterfly”, the Boeing 787 Dreamliner and commenced its first commercial flight from Bandar Seri Begawan to Singapore on 18 October, 2013, followed by flights to Dubai and London on 1 December, 2013 and to Melbourne on 2 April, 2014.

> Direct services to Shanghai were re-launched in March 2010.

> RB unveiled its new heritage-inspired uniforms on 21 February, 2014.

> RB’s newly-leased Boeing 777-200ER aircraft took off on its first commercial flight from Bandar Seri Begawan to London via Dubai in June 2010.

> The first of RB’s two A320 CEO aircraft arrived in Bandar Seri Begawan on 26 September, 2015.

> The delivery of Boeing 767-200ER aircraft enabled RB’s route to extend to London Gatwick in November 1990. > Twice-weekly flights to London Heathrow began in May 1991. The route became a daily service on 1 December, 1996. > RB employed the use of a Fokker 50 aircraft to service Miri and Labuan in Malaysia, two destinations that were significant to the growth of Brunei’s oil and gas industry. > The opportunity to expand regional connections saw RB establishing a service to Surabaya in 1997.

> RB commenced four-times weekly flights to Melbourne in March 2011.

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switched to flight mode), personal computers, FM receivers, calculators, electronic shavers, audio and video recorders, hand-held computer games, and playback devices..

Lithium Batteries The abundant stored energy that makes lithium batteries practical also makes them dangerous when they are not packed and carried properly. Royal Brunei takes the initiatives to increase the safety onboard with the carriage limitations (from industry initiatives, ICAO and IATA Dangerous Goods Regulations guidance) to mitigate against the risks of the hazards.

Low and medium powered rechargeable batteries in equipment and limited quantity of spares are recommended as carry on baggage. All spare units must be in the original packaging or packed to insulate the terminals. Medium and large nonrechargeable must be carried as cargo/ freight in accordance with current Dangerous

Goods Regulations. High-Powered batteries are not permitted onboard passenger aircraft.

Information of safe carriage of lithium batteries on-board RB flights are also available at the RB websites www.bruneiair.com.

Non-smoking Policy Royal Brunei Airlines operates non-smoking flights to all destinations.

Reconfirmation Reconfirmation is not required except for passengers travelling to and from the Middle East. Please reconfirm your departure flight at least 72 hours in advance with the local Royal Brunei Airlines office or your travel agent. Failure to do so could result in the cancellation of your reservations.

Online Booking Fly through the airport. You can now book online at www.flyroyalbrunei.com, check in online and print your own electronic ticket

(e-ticket). Online check in is available 24 hours before flight departure and closes 60 minutes before departure time.

Check In Check in counters at the Brunei International Airport are open three hours before flight departure. Passengers are advised to check in at least two hours before departure to allow for security and baggage checks.

Check in counters will be closed 45 minutes before departure, after which no boarding passes will be issued. Royal Brunei Airlines also advises its passengers to reach the boarding gate 20 minutes before the flight departs to avoid missing their flights.

Passenger Comments Your comments and suggestions will help us enhance our services. Please e-mail us at: feedback@rba.com.bn.

BRUNEI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Brunei International Airport’s computerised passenger and cargo handling facilities can handle 3 million passengers and 50,000 tonnes of cargo a year. Among the facilities offered at the airport are the Airport Prayer Hall (Surau Lapangan Terbang Antarabangsa Brunei Darussalam), telephones and Free Wi-Fi services, restaurants and shower facilities for passengers who want to rest or freshen up before their flight.

For customer comfort and convenience, RB Service Centre is located on the Departure Hall area. Passengers can make reservations, ticket purchase, book tour packages and redeem Royal Skies miles. The Customer Service Centre at the Brunei International Airport operates 7 days a week, from 8am to

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9pm Mondays to Saturdays, and 8am to 5pm on Sundays; except for Friday midday break from 12noon to 2pm.

prior to their flights. Complimentary massage chairs, shower rooms, ablution areas and High Definition TV are available.

Our Business Class and Royal Skies Elite passengers can now enjoy the service of our RB porters at departure curb-side for baggage assistance and trolley service to the check-in counters. The premium checkin lounge offers our Business Class and Royal Skies Elite passengers with a relaxed check-in experience.

Duty-free shops offer consumer goods at competitive prices. There are several outlets, including a money changer located at the departure/transit hall. On sale are portable electrical goods with international warranties, designer goods, perfumes and confectionery. Brunei International Airport is a smoke-free airport.

RB Economy class passengers and groups booking may proceed to RB check-in counter Row B.

A mobile application app has been developed by the Department of Civil Aviation to help passengers/visitors experience the newly refurbished Brunei International Airport seamlessly through the ‘iFLYBRUNEI’ app on the smartphone.

Business Class and Royal Skies Elite passengers are able to access the SkyLounge

STAYING FIT At Royal Brunei Airlines, your health, safety and comfort is of prime importance to us. For your general well-being onboard our flights, we would recommend the basic inflight exercises.

Ankle circles While seated, raise one foot and draw a circle with your toes. Rotate clockwise for 15 seconds and repeat the same counterclockwise. Repeat with the other foot. You can do one foot at a time or both simultaneously.

Knee lifts Lift and hug your knee to your chest as close as you can. Hold for 15 seconds. Alternate knee. Repeat 10-15 times for each knee.

Shoulder roll Relax shoulders then hunch them forward.

Rotate gently 10-15 times.

Neck roll With shoulders relaxed, drop ear to shoulder and gently roll neck forward and back, holding each position about five seconds. Repeat five times.

Upper back flex Stretch hands forward, then pull back slowly as far as possible. Repeat 10-15 times.

Trunk flex With both feet on the floor and stomach held in, slowly bend forward and walk your hands down the front of your legs toward your ankles. Hold stretch for 15 seconds and slowly sit back up.

TRAVELLER’S GUIDE Brunei Visitor Information Visas* Austrian, German, Malaysian, Singaporean, British nationals with the right of abode in the United Kingdom, The Netherlands and New Zealand nationals are exempted from the requirement to obtain a visa for visits not exceeding 30 days. American passport holders can enter Brunei Darussalam for three months without visas. For nationals of Belgium, Canada, Denmark, France, Indonesia, Italy, Japan, Luxembourg, Republic of Maldives, Norway, Oman, The Philippines, South Korea, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Thailand and The Principality of Liechtenstein — visas are waived for 14day visits. Nationals of Australia are issued visas on arrival at the Brunei International Airport for visits not exceeding 30 days.

All other visitors entering Brunei Darussalam must have visas obtainable from any Brunei Darussalam diplomatic mission abroad. These visas are normally issued for a two-week stay but can be renewed in Brunei. Visitors must hold onward tickets and sufficient funds to support themselves while in the country.

N.B. For more details, please contact your nearest Brunei Embassy or diplomatic representative.

Currency Bearer Negotiation Instrument Declaration Passengers entering or leaving Brunei who carry physical currency or bearer negotiable instruments valued at BND15,000 or more are required to complete a declaration form and submit it to a customs officer (if arriving in Brunei) or an immigration officer (if departing Brunei).

Duty-free Allowance* The import of the following products is subject to restrictions imposed by Brunei’s Customs and Excise Department.

Cigarettes: Passengers will be charged duty on cigarettes of $0.25 tax per stick, equal to $5 per pack of 20 sticks of cigarette, and $50 for one carton of 10 packs.

Other tobacco products - Import duty on other tobacco products has increased significantly. Passengers will be charged duty for the import of tobacco products.

Alcohol: Non-Muslim passengers may bring in two bottles of liquor plus 12 cans of beer for personal consumption only; and a reasonable quantity of perfumes.

Transportation The airport is about 11km from the capital. Taxis, car rentals and buses are available.

Currency The Brunei dollar is on a par with the Singapore dollar, which is also accepted in Brunei. Banks, hotels and many department stores will cash traveller’s cheques.

Language Malay is the official language but English is widely used. Other languages include Chinese and its dialect variants and other indigenous dialects. Although the official religion is Islam, other faiths including Christianity and Buddhism are practised.

Clothing Light clothing is advisable as the climate is generally warm and humid.

Women are requested to dress modestly in keeping with local customs.

* The visa and duty-free allowances are provided as a guideline and may change without notice.

Health Doctors provide private medical services for a nominal charge. There are a number of state health clinics and hospitals.

Credit Cards Hotels, department stores and other major establishments generally accept all internationally known credit cards.

Tipping Optional. Some hotels add a 10 per cent service charge to their room rates.

Telephones Overseas calls can be made from hotel rooms through the operator, or via international direct dialling (IDD).

There are also coin and phonecard operated public telephones.

Utilities Power supply is 220 - 240v, 50 cycles. The PAL and NTSC systems are used by local television. Tap water is generally safe to drink although some take the precaution of boiling it.

Media Radio Television Brunei has nightly news bulletins and a range of popular entertainment in both English and Malay.

Cable network and Malaysian television programmes can also be received. There are three local daily newspapers namely: Borneo Bulletin (English), The Brunei Times (English) and Media Permata (Malay). Other regional and international publications are also available at newstands.

Food For the adventurous, the food stalls offer Malay favourites, such as satay (barbecued meat on a skewer) and local dishes prepared with curry or coconut milk. Chinese, European and Indian cuisines are also available. All F&B businesses, including hotel restaurants, close for Friday prayer 12pm to 2pm.

For hotel guests, room service dining operates as usual.

Hotels Accommodation in the capital ranges from international standard to middle range hotels. Service apartments are also available at reasonable rates.

Shopping Department stores and shops offer goods ranging from cosmetics and stereos to local handicrafts such as the keris (an ornamental dagger), miniature brass cannons, and kain tenunan, a cloth woven with gold or silver threads.

Festivals and Celebrations National Day, 23 February, Hari Raya, the end of the Muslim fasting month, and His Majesty The Sultan’s birthday, 15 July. Other public holidays include Chinese Lunar New Year and Christmas.

Customs and Courtesy • In mosques, visitors should remove their shoes and should not pass in front of people at prayer. A woman should ensure that her head, knees and arms are covered before entering mosques. Robes are provided at the entrance to the mosque.

• A Bruneian shakes hands lightly and brings his hands to his chest. Members of the opposite sex do not shake hands.

• It is impolite to point with the index finger (use the right thumb instead) or to beckon someone with fingers and palm facing upwards. Instead the whole hand should be waved with palm facing downwards. The right fist should never be smacked into the left palm.

• Gifts, particularly food, are passed with the right hand.

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ROUTE MAP & DESTINATIONS

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AUSTRALIA MELBOURNE (MEL)

TULLAMARINE INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 22 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus AUD16 • Taxi AUD85 Airport Tax AUD38 Currency Australian Dollar (AUD) Language English GMT +10 RB OFFICE Level 10, 45 William Street Melbourne, VIC 3000 T: (61) 3 8651 1000 T: Toll Free Aust wide 1300 721271 E: melrba@rba.com.bn MCH AVIATION HOLDING AUSTRALIA PTY LTD Suite 6, 7-9 Mallet Road, Tullamarine Vic 3043 T: (61) 3 8318 5100 / 5109 M: (61) 4 3046 3324

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN (BWN)

BRUNEI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 8 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus BND1 • Taxi BND25 Airport Tax BND12, BKI: BND5 Currency Brunei Dollar (BND) Language Malay, Mandarin, Hokkien, English GMT +8 RB OFFICE RBA Plaza, Jalan Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan, BS 8811 T: (673) 2 212 222 / 2 240 500 F: (673) 2 244 737 AIR LOGISTICS SDN BHD Unit 6, Ground Floor, Madang Complex, Berakas BC3715, Negara Brunei Darussalam T: (673) 865 7913

CHINA HONG KONG (HKG)

CHEK LAP KOK AIRPORT Airport-City 32 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi Kowloon HKD300, Hong Kong HKD400 Airport Tax HKD120 Currency Hong Kong Dollar (HKD) Language Cantonese, Mandarin, English GMT +8 GENERAL SALES AGENT DEKS AIR (HONG KONG) LTD Room 1804-5, Jubilee Centre, 18 Fenwick Street, Wanchai T: (852) 2529 3883 F: (852) 2527 7300 E: hkgres@rba.com.bn AIR LOGISTICS LIMITED 1205A, 12th Floor, Tower II, Cheung Sha Wan Plaza , 833 Cheung Sha Wan Road, Kowloon, Hong Kong T: (852) 2328 0278 F: (852) 2328 0221 M: (852) 9161 1747 / 9181 9146

GUANGZHOU (CAN)

BAIYUN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 28 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus CNY19 • Taxi CNY2.6 Airport Tax CNY90 Currency Chinese Yuan (CNY) Language Cantonese, Mandarin GMT +8

GENERAL SALES AGENT DEKS AIR (CHINA) LTD. Room 2915, Tower B, China Shine Plaza, 9 Linhe Road West, Tianhe District, Guangzhou, China T: (8620) 8332 3120 / 8332 1575 F: (8620) 8332 6369

SHANGHAI (PVG)

PUDONG INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 35 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus CNY50 • Taxi CNY160 Airport Tax CNY90 Currency Chinese Yuan (CNY) Language Chinese (dialects include Mandarin, Shanghainese) GMT +8 PASSENGER SALES AGENT BEIJING LONGWAY INTERNATIONAL Room 0, 22nd Floor, Zhiyuan Building, No.768 Xietu Road, Luwan District, Shanghai, China Post code: 200023 T: (86) 21 5302 7288 F: (86) 21 6304 7686 E: shasales@rba.com.bn AIR LOGISTICS GROUP Room 1631, No. 333, North Chengdu Road, Jing’an District, Shanghai, China 200040 T: (86) 21 2215 7645 M: (852) 9161 1747

INDONESIA BALI (DPS)

NGURAH RAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City approximately 16 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus IDR25,000 • Taxi IDR70,000 - 90,000 Airport Tax IDR150,000 Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Language Bahasa Indonesia, English GMT +8 GENERAL SALES AGENT PT DEKS AVIATION INTERNUSA Suite #3, Lobby Level, Kuta Paradiso Hotel, Jl Kartika Plaza, Kuta, Tuban Bali (ID) T: (62) 361 757355 F: (62) 361 757785 E: dpsrba@rba.com.bn AIR LOGISTICS GROUP Wisthi Sabha Builing, 2nd FI, Room 19, Ngurah Rai International Airport, Tuban 80361, Bali, Indonesia T: (62) 361 936 3345 F: (62) 361 936 0284

JAKARTA (JKT)

SOEKARNO-HATTA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 50 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus IDR7,000 • Taxi IDR150,000 Airport Tax IDR150,000 Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Language Bahasa Indonesia, English GMT +7 GENERAL SALES AGENT PT DEKS AVIATION INTERNUSA Wisma Tamara, 6th Floor #668, Jalan Jend Sudirman Kav 24, Jakarta 1290, Indonesia T: (62) 21 520 6338 F: (62) 21 527 9990 E: jktrba@rba.com.bn

AIR LOGISTICS GROUP Suite 3K, 3rd Floor, Wisma Soewarna, Soewarna Business Park, Block E, Lot 1 & 2, Soekarno Hata International Airport, Jakarta 19110, Indonesia T: (62) 21 5591 1311 F: (62) 21 5591 1662 M: (62) 81 2165 799 22

SURABAYA (SUB)

JUANDA INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 17 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi IDR29,500 Airport Tax IDR150,000 Currency Indonesian Rupiah (IDR) Language Bahasa Indonesia, English, Madurese GMT +7 GENERAL SALES AGENT PT DEKS AVIATION INTERNUSA Wisma BII, 6th Floor #606, Jalan Pemuda No: 60-70, Surabaya 60271, Indonesia T: (62) 31 535 6377 F: (62) 31 535 6166 E: subrba@rba.com.bn AIR LOGISTICS GROUP Suite 3K, 3rd Floor Wisma Soewarna, Soewarna Business Park, Block E, Lot 1 & 2, Soekarno Hata International Airport, Jakarta 19110, Indonesia T: (62) 21 5591 2839 F: (62) 21 5591 1662 M: (62) 81 653 6501

MALAYSIA KUALA LUMPUR (KUL)

KUALA LUMPUR INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 80 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus Luxury RM25 • Taxi Budget MYR70-80, Limo MYR100-120 Airport Tax MYR51 Currency Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) Language Malay, English, Cantonese, Tamil, Mandarin GMT +8 RB OFFICE Lot 25, 1st Floor, UBN Tower (Shangri-la Shopping Arcade), P.O. Box 99, Jln P. Ramlee, 50250 Kuala Lumpur T: (60) 3 2070 7166 / 2070 6628 F: (60) 3 2070 6899 E: kulrba@rba.com.bn APPLE AVIATION SDN BHD No 57-59 (3FL), Jalan Bukit Bintang, 55100, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia T: (60) 3 2145 2029 / 2143 8877 F: (60) 3 2143 8876 M: (60) 12 388 5319

KOTA KINABALU (BKI)

KOTA KINABALU INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 8.5 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi MYR13.50 Airport Tax MYR26 To/ Transit via Brunei: MYR20 Currency Malaysian Ringgit (MYR) Language Malay, Mandarin, English GMT +8 RB OFFICE Lot BG - 3B Ground Floor, Block B, Komplex KWSP, Jalan Karamunsing, 8000 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah T: (60) 88 242 193 / 6 E: sskkoff@rba.com.bn

RB MIRI OFFICE Lot 1378 (Sub Lot 7) and Lot 1345, Block 10, Miri Concession. Land District, Kubu Road, Centre Point Commercial Centre, Miri Sarawak, Malaysia T: (60) 85 426 322 / 426 334 F: (60) 85 426 355

PHILIPPINES MANILA (MNL)

NINOY AQUINO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 9 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus PhP13 • Taxi PhP120 Airport Tax PhP750 Currency Philippine Peso (PhP) Language Tagalog, English GMT +8 GENERAL SALES AGENT AVIA-RH INC 4/F Le Rose Building, 832 A. Arnaiz Avenue, San Lorenzo Village, Makati City, Philippines.

T: (63) 632 886 7513 F: (63) 632 886 7494 E: mnlres@rba.com.bn AIR CARGO PARTNERS CORPORATION True North GSA Inc., Unit 26 Cargo Village Complex, Ninoy Aquino Avenue, Paranaque City Metro Manila, Philippines 1700 T: (63) 2 500 9114 F: (63) 2 854 0244

SAUDI ARABIA JEDDAH (JED)

KING ABDUL AZIZ INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 25 kms (from North Terminal); 15 kms (from South Terminal) Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi SAR50 Airport Tax SAR50 except Haj & Umrah pax, diplomats and escorts for human remains Currency Saudi Arabian Riyal (SAR) Language Arabic, English, French GMT +3 GENERAL SALES AGENT ELAF AVIATION Al Nakheel Centre, Madina Road Jeddah 21414, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia T: (9662) 665 7143 / 661 2679 / 665 7908 E: jedrba@rba.com.bn LEISURE CARGO FZCO Saudi Airline Cargo Terminal Building, Jeddah, K.S.A (SITA DXBFBAB) T: (966) 56 512 5101 M: (966) 56 512 5101

SINGAPORE SINGAPORE (SIN)

CHANGI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 20 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus SGD1.40 • Taxi SGD18 Airport Tax SGD21 Currency Singapore Dollar (SGD) Language Malay, English, Mandarin, Tamil GMT +8 RB OFFICE 81 Clemenceau Avenue, #03-13, UE Square Shopping Mall, Singapore 239917 T: (65) 6235 4672 E: sinrba@rba.com.bn AIR-ABDA (S) PTE LTD Room 234-236, SATS Airfreight Terminal 3, 105 Airport Cargo Road, Singapore 819462

Airmail Transit Centre, P.O.Box 0846, Singapore 918154 T: (65) 6543 2290 / 2260 F: (65) 6543 2296 M: (65) 9679 2259 / 9641 0393 / 9651 3944

THAILAND BANGKOK (BKK)

SUVARNABHUMI AIRPORT Airport-City 25 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus BHT150 • Taxi BHT200-250 Airport Tax BHT700 Currency Baht (BHT) Language Thai, English GMT +7 GENERAL SALES AGENT DEKS AIR THAILAND 4th Floor, C.P. Tower, 313 Silom Road,Bangrak 10500, Thailand T: (66) 02 638 3050 F: (66) 02 638 2969 ABDA CARGO INTERNATIONAL 999 Moo 7, B-FZ Cargo Terminal, Room 302, 3rd Fl, Suvarnabhumi Airport, Bangphli. Samutprakarn 10540 Bangkok, Thailand T: (66) 2134 2305 / 6 F: (66) 2134 2307 M: (66) 86 392 1132

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES DUBAI (DXB)

DUBAI INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT Airport-City 4 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Taxi AED20 + 50 fils for every 500m Airport Tax AED30 Currency Dirham (AED) Language Arabic, English GMT +4 RB OFFICE Centurian Star, Shop Number 3, (new RB office), Opp. Deira City Centre, Deira, Dubai, UAE T: (971) 4334 4884 (Reservation) / 4686 (Sales) F: (971) 4334 4585 E: dxbres@rba.com.bn, dxbrba@rba.com.bn Tower 400 (UNB Building), Shop 7-10, Al Soor Area, Sharjah, UAE (SHJBI0301) T: (971) 6005 24444 / 6575 8575 Oman Road, Nakheel, Shaikh Saqr Bin Mohammad Al Qasmi Street, Ras Al Khaimah, UAE (RAKBI0301) T: (971) 7227 2847 / 7228 9987 Al-Ain Tower, East 4th Road, Almouror, Electra Street, Al Markaziyah, Abu Dhabi, UAE (AUHBI0301) T: (971) 2815 3444 / 2815 3450 M-201, Paris Gift Palace Building, Zayed Bin Sulthan Street, Al-Ain, UAE (AUHBI0301) T: (971) 3764 1410 / 1990 LEISURE CARGO Office No 3069, Air Cargo Terminal Building, Dubai Cargo Village, P.O. Box 293051 Dubai, United Arab Emirates (SITA DXBFBLT) T: (971) 4 286 9666 F: (971) 4 286 9995 M: (971) 55 954 6066 Office No. M25 Freight Gate-4, Dubai Airport Free Zone, P.O. Box 54385, Dubai, United Arab Emirates (SITA DXBFBLT) T: (971) 4 299 7924 F: (971) 4 299 7989 M: (971) 55 221 6289

UNITED KINGDOM LONDON (LHR)

HEATHROW AIRPORT Airport-City 35 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus GBP7 • Taxi GBP40 Airport Tax F & J Class Pax: GBP80; Y Class Pax: GBP40; PSC: GBP9 Currency Pound Sterling (GBP) Language English GMT +0 RB OFFICE 49 Cromwell Road, London SW7 2ED, England, United Kingdom T: (44) 207 584 6660 E: lonrba@rba.com.bn AIR LOGISTICS LIMITED Cargo Terminal 4, East Midlands Airport, Castle Donington, Derby, DE74 2SA (SITA LONALXH) T: (44) 0 1332 850021 / 7885 875184 F: (44) 0 1332 811961 E: airlogistics@airlogistics. co.uk / operations@ airlogistics.co.uk / sales@airlogistics.co.uk 2nd Floor, Building 558, Shoreham Road West, Heathrow Airport Hounslow, Middlesex TW6 3RN T: (44) 0 208 759 8686 F: (44) 0 208 990 9005 M: (44) 7713 506614 E: sales@airlogistics.co.uk

VIETNAM HO CHI MINH CITY (SGN)

TAN SON NHAT AIRPORT Airport-City 7 kms Approx. Fare from Airport to City • Bus VND8,000 • Taxi VND160,000 Airport Tax USD20 Currency Vietnam Dong (VND) Language Vietnamese, Mandarin, English, French GMT +7 GENERAL SALES AGENT DEKS AIR VIETNAM SERVICE Ground Floor, Citilight Tower, 45 Vo Thi Sau St., Dakao Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam T: (84) 8 3820 7327 F: (84) 8 3820 7329 E: SGNRBA@rba.com.bn 7th Floor, 163 Ba Trieu St. Ba Trieu St., Le Dai Hanh Ward, Hai Ba Trung Dist, Hanoi, Vietnam T: (84) 4 3820 2828 F: (84) 4 3974 3595 AIR CARGO LOGISTICS VIETNAM CO. LTD Air Logistics Limited, Room 06, 2nd Floor, New TCS Building, 46-48 Hau Giang Str., Ward 4, Ho Chi Minh City T: (84) 8 3848 8567 M: (84) 9 0380 7939 Air Cargo Logistics Vietnam - HCM City, Unit 206 - New TCS Building, 46 Hau Giang Street, Tan Binh District, Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam T: (84) 8 7305 0988 Ext 8400 F: (84) 8 3547 0004 Room 1308A, 13rd Floor, Dao Duy Anh Tower, No. 9 Dao Duy Anh Street, Phuong Mai Ward Dong Da District, Hanoi City T: (84) 4 3577 2454 / 3577 0942 F: (84) 4 3577 2146 M: (852) 6892 4588 / (84) 9 0380 7939 E: hansales@airlogisticsgroup.com

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

69

WELCOME ONBOARD

CAPITAL ATTRACTIONS

ABODE OF PEACE

Small in size but big in attractions, Brunei’s capital has lots to offer.

Brunei Darussalam is a country rich in culture and heritage.

It is a small, peaceful, prosperous kingdom on the northern shore of the ecologically-rich island of Borneo. Come and discover Brunei, a Kingdom of Unexpected Treasures.

Brunei is arguably best known today as an oil producing country. The nation became independent in 1984 and, thanks to its large reserves of oil and gas, now has one of the highest standards of living in the world. Its population of just over 408,000 is made up of two-thirds ethnic Malay, with the remainder being Chinese, Indian and other indigenous groups.

The Sultanate has four districts: Brunei-Muara (which includes the capital Bandar Seri Begawan), Temburong, Tutong and Belait. ‘Darussalam’, the Arabic word for ‘Abode of Peace’ describes Brunei’s Islamic history that dates back some 1,500 years.

Today, Brunei remains the world’s only Malay Islamic Monarchy with an unbroken royal lineage that has ruled the nation for the past 600 years.

www.bruneitourism.travel For more information on Brunei, email: info@bruneitourism.travel Images DAVID KIRKLAND/ BRUNEI TOURISM

Brunei-Muara

1 2 3

THE OMAR ‘ALI SAIFUDDIEN MOSQUE

Brunei Darussalam’s iconic landmark, the mosque was completed in 1958 and is named after the 28th Sultan, the late Sultan Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien, who is referred to as the Architect of Modern Brunei.

ISTANA NURUL IMAN

The official residence of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. Although not open to public, except during Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, its golden domes and vaulted roof can be viewed from Kampong Ayer.

LAPAU AND DEWAN MAJLIS

The Royal Ceremonial Hall features an exquisite golden dome and hosts all of the Sultanate’s traditional royal ceremonies.

MUSLIM PRAYER TIMES in Brunei Darussalam September 2016

Zulqaedah 1437 / Zulhijjah 1437 Date

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2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

29

30

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

Day

Thu

Fri

Sat

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun Mon

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Imsak

4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45

4.45 4.44 4.44 4.44 4.44 4.44

4.43

4.43

4.43

4.43

4.43 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.42 4.42

4.41

4.41

4.41

Subuh

4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56 4.56

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.55

4.55 4.54 4.54 4.54 4.54 4.54

4.53

4.53

4.53

4.53

4.53

4.51

4.51

4.51

Syuruk

6.14

6.13

6.13

6.13

6.13

6.12

6.12

6.12

6.12

6.11

6.11

6.11

6.11

6.10

6.10

6.10

6.10

6.10 6.09 6.09 6.09 6.09 6.08 6.08 6.08 6.08

6.37 6.36 6.36 6.36 6.36

6.35

6.35

6.35

6.35

6.35 6.34 6.34 6.34 6.34

6.33

6.33

6.33

6.33 6.32 6.32 6.32 6.32 6.32

Hijriah

Doha Zohor Asar

6.14

6.14

Sun Mon

6.13

Sun Mon

6.12

4.52

4.52

6.31

Sun Mon

4.52

6.31

4.52

6.31

4.52

6.31

6.31 6.30 6.30

12.21 12.21 12.21 12.20 12.20 12.20 12.19 12.19 12.19 12.18 12.18 12.18 12.17 12.17 12.17 12.16 12.16 12.15 12.15 12.15 12.14 12.14 12.14 12.13 12.13 12.13 12.12 12.12 12.12 12.11 3.26

3.25

3.23

3.18

3.19

3.19

3.21

3.21

3.21

3.21

3.21

3.22

3.22

3.22

3.22

3.22

3.22

3.23

Maghrib 6.26 6.26 6.26

6.25

6.25 6.24 6.24

6.23

6.23 6.22 6.22

6.21

6.21 6.20 6.20

6.19

6.19

6.18

6.18

6.17

6.17

6.16

6.16

6.15

6.15

6.14

6.14

6.14

6.13

6.13

Isyak

7.35

7.34

7.33

7.32

7.30

7.30

7.28

7.28

7.27

7.27

7.26

7.26

7.25

7.25

7.24

7.24

7.23

7.23

7.22

7.22

7.22

70

3.28

7.36

3.27

7.36

7.35

MUHIBAH

3.22

7.34

3.21 3.20

7.33

3.19

3.18

7.32

7.31

3.19 3.20 3.20 3.20 3.20

7.29

7.29

4

THE ROYAL REGALIA BUILDING

7 8 9 10

BRUNEI MUSEUM

The museum is home to a collection of royal regalia, including the royal chariot, gold and silver ceremonial armoury, the jewel encrusted crowns used during the coronation and a replica of the throne, which is used by the Sultan on state occasions.

5 6

ISTANA DARUSSALAM

Located on Jalan Sumbiling, this wooden palace captures the architectural heritage of old Malay palaces. Visitors may view only from outside.

THE SULTAN HAJI HASSANAL BOLKIAH FOUNDATION COMPLEX

The capital’s most popular shopping venues, it combines both traditional Malay and modern architecture.

OFF THE BEATEN TRACK

Brunei’s national museum spotlights Brunei’s role in Southeast Asia’s history. The Islamic Art Gallery has historical pieces of Islamic art and a commendable Quran collection.

Temburong

11 12 13

ULU TEMBURONG NATIONAL PARK

BRUNEI ARTS AND HANDICRAFTS CENTRE

Brunei’s ancient and traditional arts and crafts – kain tenunan, silver & brass ware, wood carving and basketry – are showcased in this centre, aimed to preserve its rich legacy.

TAMU KIANGGEH

The Tamu, or open air market, on the banks of the Kianggeh River is a popular local market for traditional dishes, fruits, vegetables, flowers and handicrafts.

Explore Brunei’s lush virgin forest through lofty canopy walkways, scenic hiking trails and a thrilling river ride to the park on the Temburong River.

Tutong TASEK MERIMBUN

Brunei’s largest lake that curves in an ‘S’ has an island in the centre accessible via a wooden walkway and various facilities for picnics and recreation.

Belait OIL & GAS DISCOVERY CENTRE

An ‘edutainment’ facility, this interactive science centre aims to make science exciting and accessible to all with more than 100 hands-on exhibits in themed areas to explore.

KAMPONG AYER

The world’s largest water village that is home to more than 30,000 people living on unique wooden houses on stilts over the Brunei River.

October 2016

Zulhijjah 1437 / Muharam 1438 Date Hijriah

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2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

31

29

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

11

12

13

14

15

16

17

18

19

20

21

22

23

24

25

26

27

28

29

30

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Thu

Fri

Sat

Day

Sat

Tue Wed

Thu

Fri

Sat

Sun Mon

Tue Wed

Imsak

4.41 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.40 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.39 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38 4.38

Sun Mon

4.37

4.37

4.37

4.37

4.37

4.37

4.37

4.37

4.37 4.36 4.36 4.36 4.36 4.36

Subuh

4.51 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.50 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.49 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48 4.48

4.47

4.47

4.47

4.47

4.47

4.47

4.47

4.47

4.47 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46 4.46

Syuruk

6.08 6.08

6.07

6.07

6.07

6.07

6.07

Sun Mon

Sun Mon

Sun Mon

6.07 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05

Doha

6.30 6.30 6.30 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.29 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28 6.28

Zohor

12.11 12.11 12.10 12.10 12.10 12.09 12.09 12.09 12.09 12.08 12.08 12.08 12.08 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.07 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.06 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05 12.05

Asar

3.23

3.23

3.23

3.23

3.23

3.23

3.23

3.24

3.24

3.24

Maghrib 6.12

6.12

6.11

6.11

6.10

6.10

6.10 6.09 6.09 6.08 6.08 6.08

6.07

6.07 6.06 6.06 6.06 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.05 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.04 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.03 6.02

Isyak

7.21

7.20

7.20

7.19

7.19

7.19

7.17

7.16

7.21

3.23

7.18

3.23

7.18

3.23

7.18

3.24

7.17

7.17

3.24

7.16

3.24

7.16

3.24

7.16

3.24

7.15

3.24

7.15

3.24

7.15

3.24

7.15

3.24

7.14

3.24

7.14

3.24

7.14

3.24

7.14

3.25

7.14

3.25

7.14

3.25

7.14

3.25

7.13

SEPTEMBER | OCTOBER 2016

3.25

7.13

3.25

7.13

71

THE LAST WORD

Guess where?

Answer Great Barrier Reef Island.

72

MUHIBAH

Scott Venning

On this island, just 100 kilometres north-east of central Auckland, nature is king. Spectacular surf beaches, bird watching, ďŹ shing and trekking are all found in one place. Name the island that shares its name with one of Australia’s most recognisable natural wonders.

roya l b ru n e i a ir l in e s | S ep tember - October 20 16

A Chan ged Vei n Thail and

Ho me Away United Kingdom

P ul l i n g Thread Singapore

B eyo n d The B un gy New Zeal and

Cloud Cit y Hong Kong, PRC

BY ROYA L B R U N E I A I R L I N E S | S e pt e mb er - Octob e r 2 01 6