Verbatim's sexy new external hard drive with Always On display
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Verbatim, the world's leader in storage media technology, have just announced their new InSight portable USB hard drive, which not only looks great, but features a display that's always on.
The sleek, palm-sized new drive's enclosure is enhanced with a sexy premium piano black finish, adding a touch of elegance that will not only be appealing to professional users, but to home users too.
The Always On display is an interesting addition to this drive, letting you continuously see how much more free space you have available even when the drive is no longer connected to your computer.
The InSight, which works with both Windows and Macs, is now available in two models, 320GB and 500Gb, for US$119.99 and US$149.99 respectively.
Press Release: Verbatim
Selamat Menyambut Ramadhan Al Mubarak
'He who fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven; he who prays during the night in Ramadan with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven; and he who passes Lailat al- Qadr in prayer with faith and seeks his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven.'
Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 Announcement of Winners
Nikon Corporation (President: Michio Kariya) is pleased to announce the winners of the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 – one of the world's largest and most prestigious photo contests.
Held since 1969 and currently staged once every other year, the contest provides an opportunity for photographers around the world to communicate and to enrich photographic culture for professionals and amateurs alike.
For the 32nd staging of the contest, the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 ran with the theme "At the heart of the image," which is also the brand statement of Nikon Imaging Company. Attracting more than 51,000 photographs from 153 countries and regions, or 1.1 times the number of entries than the previous contest, the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 generated interest from the largest number of countries and regions in recent years.
Held since 1969 and currently staged once every other year, the contest provides an opportunity for photographers around the world to communicate and to enrich photographic culture for professionals and amateurs alike.
For the 32nd staging of the contest, the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 ran with the theme "At the heart of the image," which is also the brand statement of Nikon Imaging Company. Attracting more than 51,000 photographs from 153 countries and regions, or 1.1 times the number of entries than the previous contest, the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009 generated interest from the largest number of countries and regions in recent years.
A total of 54 prize winners were selected from among the large number of entries, with Mr. Maung Maung Gyi from Myanmar selected as the winner of the Grand Prize for his work entitled "Cave Of Hope."
In commenting on the contest, the 10 international photography professionals who formed the international judging panel stated that there were a large number of unique entries with strong, individual views, reflecting the entrants' passion for photography. The judges learned new ways to view photography by experiencing firsthand how other judges in the panels interpreted the works.
The contest aims to attract an even greater number of participants, the end goal being to further develop a venue that allows people from around the world to share their vision, and to thereby actively contribute to the world's photographic culture.
The winners along with their works can be seen on the Nikon Photo Contest International website beginning August 6, 2009 (http://www.nikon-npci.com/).
Winning works of the Nikon Photo Contest International 2008-2009
The Grand Prize
"Cave Of Hope"Maung Maung Gyi (Myanmar)
The Grand Prize was awarded to Mr. Maung Maung Gyi of Myanmar for his work entitled "Cave Of Hope." The photo is a deeply impressive, dramatic entry that is reminiscent of a religious painting. Judges' comments include "there is a depth in this photo that never gets old. If one looks at this photo many years from now, they will still be moved by its quiet yet powerful nature," and "one will be overcome with pious thoughts just by looking at this photo.
NIKKOR 75th Anniversary Award
"At the heart of the Kaszuby forest"Kacper Kowalski (Poland)
The NIKKOR 75th Anniversary Award was presented to Mr. Kacper Kowalski of Poland for his work entitled "At the heart of the kaszuby forrest." This image is awe-inspiring thanks to its unique angle and its subject, a never-before-seen landscape.
1st Prize : Free subject category
"Quarrel"Zsolt Kudich (Hungary)
1st Prize was awarded to Mr. Zsolt Kudich of Hungary for his work entitled " Quarrel." This shot captures the split-second expressions of two birds in a tensely set composition. The precise framing beautifully depicting the strength in life, and the strong impact this photo has are testaments to the solid techniques of the photographer.
1st Prize : "My Planet" category
"Friends"Peter Allinson (U.S.A.)
1st Prize was awarded to Mr. Peter Allinson of the U.S.A. for his work entitled "Friends." The superb angling of the shot makes the whale look as if it is smiling. This photo raises environmental awareness not by elaborate explanations but with its unstaged portrayal of nature. It shows the photography’s power to convey important messages regardless of generation.
For further details, please access the official Nikon Photo Contest International Web site at: http://www.nikon-npci.com/
Digital SLR Camera Nikon D300S
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Nikon's latest flagship DX-format digital SLR combines professional-level performance with agility and enhanced D-Movie capabilities to deliver a new measure of creative versatility.TOKYO – Nikon Corporation is pleased to announce the introduction of its new DX-format digital SLR flagship, the Nikon D300S.
As well as inheriting the finest features of the highly acclaimed D300, the D300S boasts many innovative enhancements and is designed to meet an even broader scope of creative demands from serious photographers.
First and foremost, the D300S possesses the superb product quality required of the flagship of Nikon's DX-format digital SLR camera line: 7 frames-per-second*1 high-speed continuous shooting, exceptional accuracy thanks to the 51-point AF system and approx. 100% viewfinder coverage, plus dual card slots and the rugged durability that enables the camera to work under extreme conditions. What's more, an enhanced D-Movie function provides new features, such as an external microphone input for stereo sound recording and AF capability with contrast-detect AF during movie recording. Such outstanding specifications in a trim, responsive, versatile DX-format digital SLR will give any serious photographer an extra measure of agility, for traveling and shooting with greater ease.
On top of this, users can choose from the extraordinary range of more than 60 NIKKOR lenses, and Nikon's Total Imaging System — benefits that give the D300S a special advantage in terms of creative D-SLR versatility.
*1 Based on CIPA Guidelines.
As well as inheriting the finest features of the highly acclaimed D300, the D300S boasts many innovative enhancements and is designed to meet an even broader scope of creative demands from serious photographers.
First and foremost, the D300S possesses the superb product quality required of the flagship of Nikon's DX-format digital SLR camera line: 7 frames-per-second*1 high-speed continuous shooting, exceptional accuracy thanks to the 51-point AF system and approx. 100% viewfinder coverage, plus dual card slots and the rugged durability that enables the camera to work under extreme conditions. What's more, an enhanced D-Movie function provides new features, such as an external microphone input for stereo sound recording and AF capability with contrast-detect AF during movie recording. Such outstanding specifications in a trim, responsive, versatile DX-format digital SLR will give any serious photographer an extra measure of agility, for traveling and shooting with greater ease.
On top of this, users can choose from the extraordinary range of more than 60 NIKKOR lenses, and Nikon's Total Imaging System — benefits that give the D300S a special advantage in terms of creative D-SLR versatility.
*1 Based on CIPA Guidelines.
Sir Bobby Robson dies
Former England coach Sir Bobby Robson has died at the age of 76. Robson, who had been battling cancer for many years, passed away on Friday morning. FIFA.com looks back at his globe-trotting career.
Born in County Durham on 18 February 1933, Robson was an apprentice electrician before beginning his playing career as a 17-year-old at Fulham. In two separate spells at Craven Cottage he scored 77 goals in 344 matches, though he also made 239 appearances for West Bromwich Albion, scoring 55 goals in all for the Baggies. Capped by his country 20 times, Robson eventually yielded his place in the team to Bobby Moore.
He took up his first coaching post at Fulham in 1968 and though he failed to make an impression there, he performed miracles in his next job at Ipswich Town. The men from Portman Road became a feared side under Robson's stewardship, winning the English FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981.
His reward for sustained success with the East Anglian outfit was promotion to the England job in 1982. In his first FIFA World Cup™ finals appearance at Mexico 1986, Robson steered his side to the quarter-finals, where they were knocked out by a famous Diego Maradona brace. Four year later, he would go one better, taking England to the semi-finals at Italy, where they went out on penalties after a titanic duel with Germany.
On behalf of the worldwide football family, I would like to thank Sir Bobby Robson for his memorable contribution to the beautiful game.
FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter.
Robson then returned to club football, trying his luck overseas with PSV Eindhoven in two separate stints between 1990 and 1999, and taking up the reins in the meantime at Sporting, FC Porto and Barcelona. He returned home in 1999 to take over at his beloved Newcastle United, remaining in the post until 2004. Last year he launched the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to raise money for cancer research.
Since first being diagnosed with the disease in 1992, Robson had fought and overcome cancer on several occasions, before beginning treatment again in 2007. "He died very peacefully this morning (Friday) at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him," said a statement issued by his family.
"I was extremely saddened to hear of the death of Sir Bobby Robson," commented British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. "His passion, patriotism, dedication and professionalism knew no equal during his time both as a player and a manager."
FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter said: "I am deeply saddened and moved by the passing of Sir Bobby Robson, one of the greatest personalities of our game. I particularly remember how he managed to lead England to one of their best performances in history, when reaching the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in 1990. He always showed great passion for the game and will be missed by all football fans across the globe. On behalf of the worldwide football family, I would like to thank Sir Bobby Robson for his memorable contribution to the beautiful game."
Born in County Durham on 18 February 1933, Robson was an apprentice electrician before beginning his playing career as a 17-year-old at Fulham. In two separate spells at Craven Cottage he scored 77 goals in 344 matches, though he also made 239 appearances for West Bromwich Albion, scoring 55 goals in all for the Baggies. Capped by his country 20 times, Robson eventually yielded his place in the team to Bobby Moore.
He took up his first coaching post at Fulham in 1968 and though he failed to make an impression there, he performed miracles in his next job at Ipswich Town. The men from Portman Road became a feared side under Robson's stewardship, winning the English FA Cup in 1978 and the UEFA Cup in 1981.
His reward for sustained success with the East Anglian outfit was promotion to the England job in 1982. In his first FIFA World Cup™ finals appearance at Mexico 1986, Robson steered his side to the quarter-finals, where they were knocked out by a famous Diego Maradona brace. Four year later, he would go one better, taking England to the semi-finals at Italy, where they went out on penalties after a titanic duel with Germany.
On behalf of the worldwide football family, I would like to thank Sir Bobby Robson for his memorable contribution to the beautiful game.
FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter.
Robson then returned to club football, trying his luck overseas with PSV Eindhoven in two separate stints between 1990 and 1999, and taking up the reins in the meantime at Sporting, FC Porto and Barcelona. He returned home in 1999 to take over at his beloved Newcastle United, remaining in the post until 2004. Last year he launched the Sir Bobby Robson Foundation to raise money for cancer research.
Since first being diagnosed with the disease in 1992, Robson had fought and overcome cancer on several occasions, before beginning treatment again in 2007. "He died very peacefully this morning (Friday) at his home in County Durham with his wife and family beside him," said a statement issued by his family.
"I was extremely saddened to hear of the death of Sir Bobby Robson," commented British Prime Minister Gordon Brown. "His passion, patriotism, dedication and professionalism knew no equal during his time both as a player and a manager."
FIFA President Joseph S. Blatter said: "I am deeply saddened and moved by the passing of Sir Bobby Robson, one of the greatest personalities of our game. I particularly remember how he managed to lead England to one of their best performances in history, when reaching the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup in 1990. He always showed great passion for the game and will be missed by all football fans across the globe. On behalf of the worldwide football family, I would like to thank Sir Bobby Robson for his memorable contribution to the beautiful game."
Believe it or not, this ring transforms into a Bluetooth headset
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Bluetooth headsets have been popular for years now, and they've come a long way from the first clunky and uncool-looking designs that graced the tech world not so long ago. Unfortunately, since they're still usually designed to fit the shape of the ear comfortably, they've been awkwardly hard to store in pockets when not in use. 
The "Orb", an innovative new headset which is scheduled to launch in January 2010, is a sexy-looking Bluetooth headset that transforms into a ring with a simple twist of the device
The "Orb", an innovative new headset which is scheduled to launch in January 2010, is a sexy-looking Bluetooth headset that transforms into a ring with a simple twist of the deviceThe Orb's design isn't the only thing it boasts - it also incorporated NXT technology to provide high quality bone conduction audio without the discomfort of placing a device in the ear.
A deluxe edition of this gadget will feature a Flexible Organic Light Emitting Device (FOLED) screen to display caller ID, calendar reminders, and voice-to-text information for communication without taking the ring off your finger.
The Orb will be available at prices starting around US$129.
Articles: Gizmodo
Pokok pertama disahkan tidak dijangkiti virus H1N1
Inilah pokok pertama yang disahkan tidak dijangkiti virus H1N1 di Brunei setelah diuji oleh beberapa ratus orang yang melaluinya. Lihatlah sendiri berapa ratuskah sticker yang berchop telah diperiksa yang menunjukkan tidak dijangkiti wabak dan suhu badan yang tidak melebihi 38 degrees C yang dilekatkan pada beratus daun pokok ini.Lokasi : Belakang Block Klinik Pakar Hospital RIPAS, Bandar Seri Begawan
Source : Via Email
6-in-1 flash accessory kit
Hong Kong gadget site Brando have come up all sorts of gadgets over the years (some weird, some super-cool), and have recently been hot for budget photography gear.
This awesome 6-in-1 kit includes different flash accessories that will drastically improve the quality of your shots.
The kit features a Soft Diffuser with 6 colour mask, a Honey Comb, a Conical Snoot, a Barndoor, a Mini Reflector, a Globe Diffuser and a Flash Adaptor.
For just US$88, we believe that this kit will be a huge hit with budget photographers everywhere.
Product : Brando
Michael Jackson Spam Emails
Thursday, July 9, 2009
From JACKSON FOUNDATION reply-to dr.clemm.song@live.com
date Wed, Jul 8, 2009
subject http://www.allmichaeljackson.com/heal-the-world.html
Though, a lot of criticisms has been raised against "THE KING OF POP STAR" , but he remains greatest forever. Even after his death, everywhere around the world people are devastated and nobody can believe that this sudden death happened.Many reports has been published about his death, many rumor has been carried on air with different analysis.But the only fact that we believe is that Michael is dead which bring a big sorrow to us the MICHAEL JACKSON ORGANIZATION AND CHARITY. And we say........... "MICHAEL YOU WILL LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER !!"Michael Jackson was a true humanitarian, an example to us all. He has devoted much time and money to a wide range of charities.
He loves children and takes time out when touring secretly visiting sick children.He also has special rooms at his home Never land for sick and terminally ill children to stay over. He was listed in the 2000 edition of the Guinness Book Of World Records for breaking the world record for the "Most Charities Supported By a Pop Star".We therefore use these medium to seek the support and donations from everyone and all fans of MICHAEL JACKSON to assist the sick, motherless and the orphans in the Michael Jackson's organization. We do this, because this is the way Michael would have wanted and to keep his good workmoving.
We will publish this in face book group the amounts collected, and also we will publish this officially in local newspapers.So no amount is too small for Michael who has changed a lot of life's during his life time.You can send your donations to us via money gram/western union to our information below;
WEST AFRICA MICHAEL JACKSON ORGANIZATION AND CHARITY
Receiver Name : Mrs Joan Adun
Adress: 6 zulos close Abuja
Country: west africa
dr.clemm.song@live.com
visite the website http://www.allmichaeljackson.com/heal-the-world.html
Receipt of your donation will be mail to you as soon as we receive yourdonation confirmation, you are to reply us with your contact information'sand the reference number of your donation from the money gram/western union.
YOUR NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
OCCUPATIONS:
Money gram/Western Union MTCN#:
test question :
Reply With All The details
To dr.clemm.song@live.com R.I.P Michael, welove you !!
date Wed, Jul 8, 2009
subject http://www.allmichaeljackson.com/heal-the-world.html
Though, a lot of criticisms has been raised against "THE KING OF POP STAR" , but he remains greatest forever. Even after his death, everywhere around the world people are devastated and nobody can believe that this sudden death happened.Many reports has been published about his death, many rumor has been carried on air with different analysis.But the only fact that we believe is that Michael is dead which bring a big sorrow to us the MICHAEL JACKSON ORGANIZATION AND CHARITY. And we say........... "MICHAEL YOU WILL LIVE IN OUR HEARTS FOREVER !!"Michael Jackson was a true humanitarian, an example to us all. He has devoted much time and money to a wide range of charities.
He loves children and takes time out when touring secretly visiting sick children.He also has special rooms at his home Never land for sick and terminally ill children to stay over. He was listed in the 2000 edition of the Guinness Book Of World Records for breaking the world record for the "Most Charities Supported By a Pop Star".We therefore use these medium to seek the support and donations from everyone and all fans of MICHAEL JACKSON to assist the sick, motherless and the orphans in the Michael Jackson's organization. We do this, because this is the way Michael would have wanted and to keep his good workmoving.
We will publish this in face book group the amounts collected, and also we will publish this officially in local newspapers.So no amount is too small for Michael who has changed a lot of life's during his life time.You can send your donations to us via money gram/western union to our information below;
WEST AFRICA MICHAEL JACKSON ORGANIZATION AND CHARITY
Receiver Name : Mrs Joan Adun
Adress: 6 zulos close Abuja
Country: west africa
dr.clemm.song@live.com
visite the website http://www.allmichaeljackson.com/heal-the-world.html
Receipt of your donation will be mail to you as soon as we receive yourdonation confirmation, you are to reply us with your contact information'sand the reference number of your donation from the money gram/western union.
YOUR NAME:
ADDRESS:
CITY:
STATE:
OCCUPATIONS:
Money gram/Western Union MTCN#:
test question :
Reply With All The details
To dr.clemm.song@live.com R.I.P Michael, welove you !!
A Virtual look at Michael Jackson's amazing collections.
Late last year, Julien's Auctions announced the sale of over 2000 pieces of Michael Jackson memorabilia. It took 30 men and 10 trucks over 3 months to move the items from Jackson's Neverland Ranch and into the auction site in Beverly Hills.
The auction was later cancelled and converted into a twelve day exhibition which was held in April 2009, where the public were given the chance to view Jackson's impressive personal collection of arcade cabinets, including authentic movie memorabilia that could make grown men feel like boys again.Check out the 360-degree tour by clicking here. [Please note that you'll need a decent Internet connection to enjoy the tour]
Articles: Kotaku, Gizmodo
All Events Celebrations Postponed
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Decision Taken As Precautionary MeasureBandar Seri Begawan - In view of the outbreak of influenza A (H1N1) pandemic in the country and as a precautionary measure, all events to mark the 63rd birthday anniversary celebration of His Majestythe Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam have been postponed except for the mass prayer on July 14, 2009, the Minister of Home Affairs announced yesterday afternoon in a media statement of the National Committee of His Majesty’s 63rd birthday celebration.
Home Affairs Minister Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hi Adanan as the Chairman of the National Committee of the celebration said, “By Command of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, His Majesty said all events and ceremonies in the national and district levels have been postponed as a precautionary and vigilant measures amidst the outbreak of the H1N1 pandemic in the country to safeguard the security, health and prosperity of the citizens and residents of the country.
“However, the mass Maghrib, highly recommended Hajat prayers as well as recitation of Surah Yasin, Tahlil and thanksgiving Doa will continue on July 14, 2009 with special focus at the Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque in Kg Kiarong as well as mosques and religious halls in all the four districts.” Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
Home Affairs Minister Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hi Adanan as the Chairman of the National Committee of the celebration said, “By Command of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, His Majesty said all events and ceremonies in the national and district levels have been postponed as a precautionary and vigilant measures amidst the outbreak of the H1N1 pandemic in the country to safeguard the security, health and prosperity of the citizens and residents of the country.
“However, the mass Maghrib, highly recommended Hajat prayers as well as recitation of Surah Yasin, Tahlil and thanksgiving Doa will continue on July 14, 2009 with special focus at the Jame’ Asr Hassanil Bolkiah mosque in Kg Kiarong as well as mosques and religious halls in all the four districts.” Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin
Awesome RC SWAT truck with hidden RC Helicopter
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Now, we might not be young enough to know if a toy would be cool enough to be popular with the kids nowadays, but when we saw the Heli-Mission SWAT Truck from Silverlit, we knew it had 'awesome-ness' written all over it.
Not only is the SWAT Truck a fully-functional remote controlled car that features sirens and flashing lights, it also has a cargo bay that opens and reveals a 3-channel remote controlled helicopter that's hidden inside!
Once the cargo bay roof doors open, the launch platform that the helicopter is on even rises to the top, allowing it to take off easily from the truck! Why didn't they have toys like these when we were young? The Silverlit Heli-Mission SWAT Truck will be available online from July 2009 for £59.95.
Articles: Toyology, OhGizmo! Product Page: Go!
Another Scam Email Alert
Friday, July 3, 2009
THE INTERNATIONAL AWARENESS PROMOTION DEPARTMENT OF THE BMW AUTOMOBILE COMPANY.
22 Garden Close,
Stamford,
Lagos State,Nigeria.
The Board of Directors, members of staff and the International Awareness Promotion Department of the BMW Automobile Company, wishes to congratulate you on your success as one of our TEN(10) STAR PRIZE WINNER in this years' BMW Automobile International Awareness Promotion (IAP) held on Wednesday 1st of July, 2009.
This makes you a proud owner of a brand new BMW 5 Series, M Sport Saloon car and a cash prize of £250,000.00 GBP (Two Hundred and Fifty Thousand Great British pounds).
Note: You are to keep your winnings and the following below strictly confidential so as to avoid double claims and complications arising from double claims:
Reference Number: BMW:2551256003/23
Ticket number: 5647600545188
Serial number: BMWP/556543450906
For you to collect your prizes, kindly fill the verification form below and send it to the BMW Claims Manager, Barrister Barry Baron of our claims office through email, stating your receipt of this notification. He has been mandated to offer you assistance and facilitate the urgent delivery of your prizes.
Barrister Barry Baronmailto:Baronbarristerbarrybaron@yahoo.co.uk
VERIFICATION FORM:
1.) FULL NAME:
2.) AGE:
3.) SEX:
4.) ADDRESS:
5.) COUNTRY:
6.) MOBILE PHONE:
7.) NAME OF COMPANY/OCCUPATION:
Congratulations once more, and keep trusting BMW Automobile for top quality automobiles.
ENGR.LLOYD BRADFORD
DIRECTOR OF PROMOTIONS,
INTERNATIONAL AWARENESS PROMOTIONS,
BMW AUTOMOBILE.
LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM.
Influenza A(H1N1) - First Swine Fever Death In Brunei
Thursday, July 2, 2009
One death from Influenza A: The Ministry of Health has confirmed 27 new cases of Influenza A (H1N1), bringing the total in the country to 93 cases. All these cases are still being investigated and undergoing treatment.
The Ministry of Health also confirms the death of a 12-year-old child early this morning. The patient had Auto-immune Hepatitis end stage live failure and pneumonia and has been in critical condition since 26 June 2009. Laboratory tests confirmed that the patient was positive for Influenza A (H1N1). The Ministry of Health is investigating the background of the patients Influenza A (H1N1) infection.
Situation summary of cases as of today:
1. Cases in different age groups:-
* 58.4% of the reported cases are made up of people of ages 20 years and below
* 36.4% of them are in between the ages of 20 and 40 years of age
* 5.2% involves those above the age of 40
2. A total number of 21 patients has been discharged from Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital, Tutong.
3. Current epidemiological study shows the history of infection:-
* 56% cases has travel history to other countries (ie. United Kingdom, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Johor, Lawas, Bintulu, Miri, Labuan, Singapore, Philippines and Laos)
* 25.8% cases are through contact
* 18.2% cases are not yet known and is still being investigated
The Ministry of Health also confirms the death of a 12-year-old child early this morning. The patient had Auto-immune Hepatitis end stage live failure and pneumonia and has been in critical condition since 26 June 2009. Laboratory tests confirmed that the patient was positive for Influenza A (H1N1). The Ministry of Health is investigating the background of the patients Influenza A (H1N1) infection.
Situation summary of cases as of today:
1. Cases in different age groups:-
* 58.4% of the reported cases are made up of people of ages 20 years and below
* 36.4% of them are in between the ages of 20 and 40 years of age
* 5.2% involves those above the age of 40
2. A total number of 21 patients has been discharged from Pengiran Muda Mahkota Pengiran Muda Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah Hospital, Tutong.
3. Current epidemiological study shows the history of infection:-
* 56% cases has travel history to other countries (ie. United Kingdom, Kuala Lumpur, Kota Kinabalu, Johor, Lawas, Bintulu, Miri, Labuan, Singapore, Philippines and Laos)
* 25.8% cases are through contact
* 18.2% cases are not yet known and is still being investigated
Say Goodbye to Hello Kitty
Thursday, June 18, 2009
AFTER what must have seemed like months of waiting excitedly for the 'Hello Kitty Fantastical Adventure' show, yesterday, the organisers announced that Hello Kitty is not coming to Brunei. The emergency press conference hastily called by GoodMILES, the organiser of the musical, attended by several members of the media and website owners was emotionally-charged, although the organisers and performers tried to keep a calm disposition. A sweeping glance of the Plenary Hall at the International Convention Centre (ICC) where the show was due to take place this weekend showed stage and sound equipment which were in the process of being installed, but now, will have to be dismantled and repacked and shipped back to the Philippines. The cast and production people of over 50 people were all sitting down forlornly when I walked in. Imagine the disappointment, after months of rehearsing and preparing the whole production set-up, from the props to the costumes on top of the sweat and tears the production team and cast went through only to have the show called off. Most of the cast and production team had planned their trip to Brunei months in advance, some hailing from the Philippines, and others coming from as far as United Kingdom and Australia. Everyone would be disappointed, from the many charitable organisations in Brunei who were given free tickets to watch the world class performance to those (especially families with children) who had purchased tickets to the musical. GoodMILES even has a charter flight of tourists who will be flying in on a travel package incorporating both the show as well as to visit Brunei. So what has exactly transpired to cause such an unfortunate cancellation of the show?
TC Chun, managing director of GoodMILES, explained that the ship which carried over a hundred 40-foot containers, one of which stored the costumes and props of the musical, was impounded by the Singapore Government earlier this month, in lieu of some payments or claims by the vessel owner, a shipping company based in Singapore. The container containing the costumes and props was supposed to be released yesterday and TC Chun had even arranged for a cargo plane charter which was said to cost a couple of hundred thousand US dollars, to be on standby to deliver the container. However, the court in Singapore had set another hearing date, making it virtually impossible for even the charter flight to be executed in order for the show to happen. When queried on how much expenses was spent in organising the show, in TC Chun's own words, he said, "I could have bought three houses with the money. That's a lot of money, but it's not only about the money. There are other factors and expenses like marketing which run out to hundreds of thousands of dollars, venue rental, food, salaries, lighting and equipment, transportation and other logistics costs."He added that since the show was cancelled, he would arrange for the cast to have a full city tour and visit the sights around Brunei Darussalam.
Ticket buyers can expect refund and arrangements will be coordinated by GoodMILES which will be advised to the public, perhaps by next week. For more details, contact 2335777 or 2337500.
Courtesy of Brunei Times
