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NEWS ARCHIVE FOR 2010

The following contains previous news articles for the year 2010:
January 2010 February 2010 March 2010 April 2010
May 2010 June 2010 July 2010 August 2010
September 2010 October 2010 November 2010 December 2010

HSBC NEWS DECEMBER 2010

PURCHASES FOR FREE, COURTESY FROM HSBC

Friday, 10 December 2010
During the school holiday season, there will be those that will be busy preparing their children for the next academic year whilst others prepare to enjoy their well-deserved break either at home or abroad. Whatever your purchases may be on, either at home or abroad, with HSBC latest promotion, you can get it for free!! Simply by swiping your HSBC credit card, you stand a chance to win up to B$1,000.00 payback on your purchases.

The daily winners picked to enjoy this promotion are as follows:
15 Nov 2010 - Cheok Hock San Robert
16 Nov 2010 - Pg Rakawi bin Pg Sabli
17 Nov 2010 - Ms Jennifer Chong Li Zhen
18 Nov 2010 - Dyg Roziah Ahmat
19 Nov 2010 - Mrs Noriah Kamis
20 Nov 2010 - Miss Rina Louis
21 Nov 2010 - Mrs Magdalene Siao Ling Sikun
22 Nov 2010 - Lim Pun Chin / Tan Wun San
23 Nov 2010 - Mdm Khai Mee Wee
24 Nov 2010 - Ghoush Rupa

This promotion extends from 15 November 2010 till 15 January 2011 and is open to all HSBC credit card customers. Customers will receive one lucky draw chance for every credit card transaction made during the two months period to stand a chance of winning up to B$1000.00 payback on the purchase transaction made. The promotion itself is applicable to both local as well as overseas card spending.

To enjoy your "free purchases" from HSBC, be part of this promotion now! For further details about HSBC's promotions and its products and services, visit your nearest HSBC branches or go online at www.hsbc.com.bn

      UBD & HARVARD UNIVERSITY INKS FOR MOU FOR KUALA BELALONG PROJECT
Friday, 10th December 2010
Today marks the formalisation of UBD's collaboration with Harvard University for the establishment of a research plot in Kuala Belalong, a project under Brunei's Heart of Borneo initiative.

The Memorandum of Understanding was signed by Associate Professor Dr Zohrah Bte Haji Sulaiman, Acting Vice Chancellor of Universiti Brunei Darussalam and Dr Stuart Davies, Director of The Centre for Tropical Forest Science (CTFS) of Harvard University and the Smithsonian Institution.

Present to witness the signing was Yang Mulia Dato Seri Setia Hj Yusoff Hj Ismail, Acting Minister of Education.

The signing ceremony took place this morning at Universiti Brunei Darussalam and was attended by staff and officers from UBD, CTFS and HSBC.


(From left) UBD's Dr Hjh Kamariah, HSBC's Lim Boon Teck, HSBC CEO Tareq Muhmood and Stuart Davies of Harvard University in a group photo.

This important project which was first initiated two years ago, has assisted researchers from UBD, STRI and Harvard University to monitor the impact of climate change on the forests in Brunei Darussalam.

This extensive project which costs USD330,700 is fully funded by HSBC Brunei, which is in line with the HSBC group's focus on understanding the effects of Climate Change.

"The establishment of the 25 hectare plot is important to allow for long term monitoring and assessment on the impacts and vulnerabilities of climate change on forest biodiversity and health of forest ecosystems. The scientific information being gathered locally will not only be useful for better management of Brunei forests but it will also contribute to better understanding of the relationship between forests and climate change globally." said Dr Zulkarnain Bin Hj Hanafi, Vice Chancellor of UBD.

"The forests of Brunei Darussalam are among the most diverse forests on Earth. The research plot in Kuala Belalong, at just 0.25 km2, will likely include over 1,000 species of trees. That is more tree species than in all of North America or Europe. Brunei's forests store an enormous library of biodiversity. It is critical that monitoring projects like this in Brunei provides information for managing these unique forests." said Stuart Davies, CTFS Director.

Results from this research project will provide long-term scientific data on environmental change necessary to create predictive models and make policy decisions that will guide and secure improvements to the ecosystems and climate of the planet.

Tareq Muhmood, CEO, HSBC Brunei said "Apart from the USD330,700 sponsorship, our staff has also committed their time by actively involving themselves with the research. This year over 50 staff trekked up to the plot to assist the researchers in Kuala Belalong with their data collection."

      UBD & HSBC BRUNEI DONATES $20,000 TO MINISTRY OF EDUCATION
Wednesday, 8th December 2010
Education is extremely vital to the development and prosperity of the country. Investing in education is one of main focus within HSBC's Corporate Sustainability programme in the belief that it provides the fundamental building blocks for the development of communities that the bank operates in.

It is in this belief that HSBC today donated BND 20,000 to the Ministry of Education to provide assistance to financially disadvantaged primary school students. The donation in form of book vouchers will be used to positively impact over 200 local primary school children, assisting them with their textbooks and stationery needs over the next year.

The donation presentation ceremony held at the Ministry of Education was attended by Ibrahim bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Director of Schools, Ministry of Education as the Guest of Honour, Tareq Muhmood, CEO, HSBC Brunei as well as senior education officers and HSBC senior managers.


Ibrahim bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Director of Schools, Ministry of Education (R) receiving the donation.

"Education is the driving force of economic development and to personal achievement and success. By investing in education, we hope to provide opportunities of the youth so they have a place in the competitive and continuously evolving society. It is our sincere hope that with this donation, students will focus on their education without having to worry about their financial burdens." Said Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer HSBC Brunei.

"At HSBC, we believe education is important and foremost for our youth, prioritising those who are from disadvantaged backgrounds. Our projects focus on education for disadvantaged children, financial and business literacy, and building environmental education and understanding. The projects that we drive and support contribute to the relieving of social disadvantage and provide opportunities for a better future." said Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Brunei.

The donation is one of the many initiatives undertaken by the bank in the area of education. Amongst others, HSBC has rolled out several financial management workshops to primary and secondary schools across to nation to help foster good money management skills while they are still young so these skills will develop into life-long habits.

      HSBC PREMIER HOSTED AN EVENTFUL GATHERING
Saturday, 4th December 2010
HSBC Premier hosted an exclusive Masquerade Soiree event for its Premier customers at the Grand Ballroom, The Empire Hotel and Country Club recently.


Lucky draw winner of a Sony Bravia.

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei in his welcoming remarks stated that HSBC is extremely happy to be able to host this prestigious event exclusively for its Premier customers. "As you know, we have restructured our HSBC Premier branding to cater for your wealth management, daily banking, family's protection and global banking needs. With our highly dedicated Relationship Managers, I can assure you, we will always provide you with a holistic premier service whilst ensuring the highest level of services possible." added Mr Muhmood.

As a reflection of HSBC Premier being a global proposition, with over 300 HSBC Premier Centres in more than 40 countries, cuisines from various countries (Brunei, Japan, China, the United Kingdom and Italy) were served.

Throughout the evening, customers had the opportunity to get acquainted and mingled with their relationship managers and various other HSBC Senior Managers informally.

The event became more exciting during the Lucky Draw session which included a grand prize of a round trip for two to the United Kingdom. Other fabulous prizes included tickets to Dubai, Australia and Hong Kong, an Apple ipad and ipod and various other exciting gadgets.

A special lucky draw was also held for customers who completed a survey that was conducted that evening where one lucky customer stood the chance to win 40,000 HSBC Rewards Points which, once converted into Airmiles is equivalent to a return ticket to any destination within South-east Asia.

HSBC Premier is a relationship banking without boundaries, designed to give our customers recognition and benefits whether at home or abroad. As an HSBC Premier customer, benefits include global recognition and having a global service for banking needs.

With the assistance of their dedicated HSBC Relationship Managers, customers can make the right financial decisions from deposits to wealth management. HSBC Premier also provides customers with convenience and freedom to access their accounts globally.

In addition, HSBC Premier provides a global safety net for the individuals and their family with free emergency encashment and card replacement services (including children abroad up to 25 years old). There is also an exclusively tailored Premier Kidsaver Account for children up to the age of 14 years old.

For further information on HSBC Premier, customers can call the 24-hour Premier Phonebanking at 2 252 256, visit any of the 10 HSBC branches or alternatively go on-line at www.hsbcpremier.com.bn

      HSBC PROVIDES SEEDING FUNDS FOR BEACH BUNCH'S BLUE FLAG PROJECT
Wednesday, 1st December 2010
HSBC and Beach Bunch today held a signing ceremony, marking the beginning of a partnership where HSBC will provide financial assistance to Beach Bunch bid to obtain Blue Flag certification for Meragang Beach.

The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was signed by Tareq Muhmood, CEO, HSBC Brunei and Rizan Latif, President, Beach Bunch and was witnessed by members of the Beach Bunch as well as HSBC senior management staff.


Tareq Muhmood, CEO HSBC and Rizan Latif, President of Beach Bunch after the signing of MOU.

Through this MOU, HSBC has pledged USD 36,000 to support the Blue Flag project, enabling the Beach Bunch to commence on the required feasibility studies and environmental assessments on Meragang Beach as well as the enrollment of the Beach Bunch to the Foundation of Environmental Education (FEE).

Tareq commented, "We are delighted to receive this opportunity to partner up with the Beach Bunch. Today's MOU further demonstrates our commitment to sustainable environmental management and preservation."

Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability added, "HSBC's collaboration with the Beach Bunch is part of our pursuit to introduce environment education to local schools. Once the Beach Bunch becomes a member FEE, this opens up the pathway for them to introduce FEE's Eco School program to schools in Brunei. Our support of the Beach Bunch builds on our stance to deliver environmental education."

"Beach Bunch would like to thank HSBC on the funds and this is the beginning of the journey towards pursuing sustainable environmental development of Brunei beaches. The funding will enable us to start the foundation component of the project which include FEE registration, visual concept designs, environmental public health and safety studies" according to Rizan Latif, President, Beach Bunch.

As one of the world's leading financial organisations, HSBC believes that it plays a huge role in supporting the economies that it operates in. Today's MOU signing is one of the many environment-related programmes that HSBC supports.
Tareq Muhmood and Rizan Latif with the MOU.



HSBC NEWS NOVEMBER 2010

HSBC HIGHLIGHTS ONLINE BANKING SYSTEM

Friday, 26 November 2010
HSBC Payment and Cash Management held an HSBCnet Seminar for some 200 Corporate customers at Orchid Garden Hotel yesterday.

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei in his welcoming remarks thank all that were present at the seminar. "As part of HSBC's information-sharing initiative, the main objective of this seminar is to gain a better insight of the HSBCnet capabilities," according to Tareq.


Ms Lim Lih Fang, Manager Payment and Cash Management, HSBC Brunei explained, "This seminar is held to create customer awareness on HSBCnet capabilities and for customers to gain insight of our other products usage such as overseas payments and staff payroll".

HSBC Payment and Cash Management conduct such seminar as to help organization gain greater financial insight, efficiency and control on a global scale. During the seminar, Dayangku Roszerinah binti Pengiran Ahmad, Assistant Manager Client Services, briefed that HSBCnet is an online banking system provided to HSBC's Corporate Banking Customers for a comprehensive suite of flexible online financial solutions. It's all designed to help increase productivity and manage cash flow.

In the seminar, Dayangku Roszerinah also stressed that with real-time global account access and customizable setup features, gain control over critical financial functions at every level of an organisation. She continued that HSBCnet is able to keep track of payments, receivables, liquidity and the changing value of assets – all with one secure, global solution.


      HSBC SHARES THE IMPORTANCE OF FINANCIAL PLANNING
Thursday, 25th November 2010
HSBC's Assistant Manager Retail Coach, Ms Elizabeth Sim paid a visit to Sekolah Menengah PAP Hajah Masna recently to give a talk on the importance of financial management. Forty two enthusiastic students attending the talk were given an insight into the financial world through an engaging seminar and activity.

In the seminar, Elizabeth Sim touched on the proper management of cash and credit, the concept of insurance and even shared some of the features of investment tools with the students.

The activities that the students participated in were designed to educate the students through a fun filled environment. Prizes were given away to the students that managed to obtain the highest scores on the interactive games.

"Our visit is part of a region wide financial literacy education program called HSBC Living Finance. The program is to help teenagers acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to make financial decisions in the future as well as to widen their exposure to the world of finance. Such exposure at an early age is essential" said Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability.

HSBC Living Finance is one of many programs that HSBC conducts for local schools. Others include the Youth Leadership Program where students are taught presentation, speaking and writing skills and also the Climate Champion Roadshow which hopes to promote environmental awareness amongst the youth. Schools that are interested in any of these programs can write in to the HSBC Corporate Sustainability Department, 3rd Floor, HSBC Chambers, Corner of Jalan Pemancha/Jalan Sultan or call 225 2114 for further information.


Students from Sekolah Menengah PAP Masna listen to the talk.


      HSBC AWARDS OFFICE MAKEOVER WORTH BND 6,000
Wednesday, 24th November 2010
The Trade and Supply Chain campaign concluded with HSBC announcing the final month and Grand Draw lucky winners. The prize presentation took place at HSBC Commercial Banking Head Office in Bandar branch yesterday.

During the promotional period, customers who successfully completed trade transactions earned themselves one chance per transaction towards winning laser jet printers in the Monthly Draws. The campaign which sucessfully ends on 15 November finally revealed the Grand Draw lucky winner who won an office makeover worth BND 6,000.

The lucky winner of the final Monthly Draw was PDN Sendirian Berhad Company which won a HP Colour LaserJet printer. While PEA's Company was the fortunate Grand lucky winner awarded for the office makeover. Sulaiman Isa, Business Banking Manager was on hand to present and congratulate the winners.
A representative from PDN Sdn. Bhd. Company receiving the prize from Sulaiman Isa, Business Banking Manager.


Sulaiman Isa, Business Banking Manager presenting the Grand Prize to a representative from PEA's Company.


A group photo taken with the winners


      HSBC REWARDS 10 LUCKY CUSTOMERS
Monday, 22nd November 2010


The Salary Transfer Campaign has come to an exciting conclusion today. 10 lucky winners were picked among customers who made salary transfer to HSBC between July and October 2010. The prize presentation took place at HSBC Bandar.

Each of these winners won up to BND5, 000 wipe-out on their outstanding facilities or BND1000 credited into their savings account if they do not hold any facilities with HSBC. Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Manager Sales & Distribution, HSBC Brunei was on hand to congratulate the winners and gave away the prizes.

The lucky customers were:
Mr Nestor M Roque
Mr Chester Baduel Almario
Mohd Raimi Abdul Samad
Ms Nellie Tan Yi Mei
Md Yaddy Hakem Masli
Karyono
Prayoon Namlawa
Mr Tan Pit Suan
Ms Yap Mei Chen
Bustami Ahmad

Dayangku Hamidah said, "With our global recognition, extensive network and channels that serve customers 24/7, highly trained personal bankers and full range of products to cater for every customers' need, more people are choosing HSBC as their main bank to assign their salary to."


      HSBC FIRST INTERNATIONAL BANK TO COMPLETE RMB TRADE SETTLEMENT ACROSS SIX CONTINENTS
Thursday, 18th November 2010
HSBC recently announced the completion of a renminbi-(RMB) denominated trade settlement transaction in Brazil, South America. In settling this transaction, HSBC stands as the leading bank globally offering customers RMB trade settlement services in Asia Pacific, Europe, Australasia, Africa, North America and South America. The ground-breaking transaction was closed for Groupo Tellerina, a retailer of house and decoration products.

HSBC's market setting RMB-denominated transaction in Brazil demonstrates China's growing economic influence globally and the evolving demand for the RMB as a settlement currency across all continents.

Peter Wong, HSBC's Chief Executive for Asia Pacific, said: "China's position within the global economy is developing rapidly and its growing influence is undeniable. We estimate that annual trade flows will cross US$2 trillion within five years, easily positioning the RMB as one of the top three currencies used in global trade. As the RMB becomes a major settlement currency, our global connectivity and unrivaled RMB experience provides customers with a significant advantage."

John Coverdale, HSBC's Global Co-Head of Commercial Banking, said: "HSBC estimates the RMB will become one of the top three currencies used in global trade in the near future. We have RMB capabilities in all of China's top 20 trading partner economies, and will continue to widen our scope to facilitate RMB-based remittances and Documentary Credits transactions in more countries and territories. Going forward, we will continue to roll out RMB services to both corporate and institutional customers in more countries worldwide."

Following the expansion of the RMB trade settlement programme by the Chinese government in June 2010, HSBC has actively supported the internationalisation of China's currency, extending its RMB capabilities to 33 markets across six continents.


      HSBC VOTED BEST CASH MANAGEMENT BANK IN BRUNEI BY CLIENTS IN EUROMONEY POLL
Monday, 15th November 2010


HSBC HSBC Global Payments and Cash Management has once again been voted Best Cash Management Bank in Brunei in Euromoney's highly regarded Cash Management Poll in 2010.

Now in its 3rd year since 2008, the poll recognises leadership in cash management through the polling of banks' corporate and institutional clients. Treasury and finance professionals worldwide were asked to indicate which international banks they currently use for their cash management services. They were then asked to rate the services provided by their lead cash management bank across various categories, such as the effectiveness of their cash management solutions, quality of service and support, sophistication of banking technology and systems security.

In addition to being voted Best Cash Management Bank in Brunei, HSBC also dominated the Asia polls, coming first in the other 12 markets by being voted as Best Cash Management Bank domestically in Australia, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Sri Lanka, Taiwan and Vietnam. An unprecedented achievement.

Commenting on the accolade, Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei, said, "We are grateful to our clients for participating in the poll and again recognising HSBC as the leader in Cash Management in Asia. I believe that our clients' endorsement reflects the dedication of our team of professionals who place our clients at the centre of our product innovation, solutions advisory and service delivery."

Lim Lih Fang, Manager Global Payment and Cash Management added, "This award reaffirms that we are investing in our Global Payments and Cash Management franchise at unprecedented levels, evidencing our commitment to our clients. On behalf of our entire team of dedicated professionals, we are delighted to receive such recognition from our clients."

Public HSBC voted Best Cash Management Bank in Brunei by clients in Euromoney poll/2 continue to lead the industry by providing them with the best team of cash management professionals to partner with and the very latest in service innovation and product technology".


      HSBC GLOBAL MARKETS TREATS VALUED CUSTOMERS TO A SPLENDID AFTERNOON HIGH TEA
Friday, 12th November 2010


HSBC Global Markets had recently hosted an appreciation High Tea buffet for their Commercial Banking (CMB) and Premier customers who deal in foreign exchange transactions. The high tea took place at The Seasons Restaurant in the Centrepoint Hotel.

HSBC Global Markets had recently hosted an appreciation High Tea buffet for their Commercial Banking (CMB) and Premier customers who deal in foreign exchange transactions. The high tea took place at The Seasons Restaurant in the Centrepoint Hotel.

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei, HSBC senior managers, Global Markets dealers, Commercial Banking and Premier relationship managers as well as other bank members were present at the event to greet and socialize with the customers.

"This event is a way to show our customers how much we appreciate their patronage. Of course, great food and service is paramount for successful customer appreciation and personal attention, especially by HSBC, which goes a long way in making customers feel truly valued and appreciated", commented Salyahrinah Yahya, Treasurer, Global Markets HSBC Brunei.

Senior Trader, Global Markets, On Swee Long was also overwhelmed by the good turnout. More than 150 valued customers attended the event and mingled around with HSBC bank members. He added, "The high tea event is one of Global Markets' yearly events that validate our appreciation for our customers' continued loyalty and it is important to have our customers come away feeling important." The feedback from the customers has been very encouraging as they enjoyed the afternoon filled with splendid indulgences, entertainment and networking in a casual flare.

Global Markets HSBC Brunei manages the bank's treasury operations which include dealings in foreign exchange and interest rates.


      HSBC BRUNEI IN COLLABORATION WITH M.O.E. LAUNCHES YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS 2010-11
Wednesday, 10th November 2010


HSBC Brunei launched the Young Entrepreneurs Awards 2010-2011 (YEA) for the fourth year running in collaboration with the Ministry of Education at PTE Katok yesterday.

HSBC Young Entrepreneurs Awards is a business plan writing competition which was launched in Brunei in 2008 to encourage innovation and creativity amongst students. This competition is open to local tertiary education students, which includes those who have already completed their O Levels and have started doing their A Levels, Diploma or Degree and those undergoing a post graduate programme. First launched in Hong Kong in 2000, the HSBC YEA competition now runs concurrently in six other countries namely Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Brunei. In 2010, three winning teams (Gold, Silver and Bronze) from Brunei were given the opportunity to take a weeklong entrepreneurship trip to Malaysia, where the gold team competed with the winners from the other regions.

The HSBC Young Entrepreneurs Awards began with the recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat to bless the morning's ceremony followed by the welcoming remarks by Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei. Gracing the event was the Guest of Honour, Ibrahim bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Director of Schools, Ministry of Education. Also present were the senior education officers, HSBC senior managers, principals, teachers and over 120 students, a combination from all the Sixth Form Centre students in the Sultanate.

In his speech, "This is the fourth year that HSBC Brunei is conducting this award and this time, with the collaboration of the Ministry of Education in support of SPN 21 or the National Education System for the 21st Century, which emphasizes basic technical, vocational and business skills that is useful for self-employment and other career opportunities…This education programme is also designed to help prepare young students to become business leaders of the future. It offers participants an opportunity to learn business disciplines in an open competition and to develop innovative business plans..."

The Guest of Honour, Ibrahim bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Acting Director of Schools from Ministry of Education officially launched the HSBC Young Entrepreneurs Awards 2010 – 2011.

After the launch, a presentation on YEA was given by Gerald Sim, Group Communications Manager, HSBC Brunei. In the presentation, he explained that the competition will be held in three phases with students in 2-3 person teams submitting a business plan at YEA website (www.asiayea.com) by 10 January 2011. Following which, a maximum of 20 teams being selected for the second round and the teams need to prepare a one minute visual presentation which will be uploaded on the website by 7 February 2011. Public will then vote online from 9 February until 22 February 2011.

The shortlisted teams will then attend several workshops to enhance their skills such as business plan writing and presentation skills before presenting their proposal in front of a panel of judges on April 2011. The regional competition will take place sometime in June in one of the Asian country which will be announced at a later date.

At the ceremony, Mr Muhmood expressed his hopes that this years' competition will generate an even greater enthusiasm from the public. The future depends on the next generation and as one of the leading global financial insitutions with a long history of assisting youth through various sponsorships and projects, HSBC seeks to foster young people's ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirits which are essential qualities for tomorrow's business leaders.

      ATDC-HSBC JOIN FORCES TO PROVIDE OPPORTUNITY TO YOUTH
Monday, 01st November 2010



In 2009, 12 unemployed youth underwent a positive change in their lives. Through the "ATDC-HSBC Youth Employment Program", these 12 individuals received free skill training and all 12 have gained full employment.

Both ATDC and HSBC renewed their commitment towards the youth employment program in a launching ceremony held at Seaview Hotel today. This year, a total of 25 youth have been selected to participate in this program. 15 of them comprise the 2nd batch of Trainees for Lifting and Hoisting and 10 are for Scaffolding Training, a new area this year which is also in demand in the oil and gas industry.

The Lifting and Hoisting Training are conforming to the Brunei Shell and LEEA (Lifting Equipment Engineers Association) standards. The Scaffolding Training is accredited by NVQ (CSkills), an international accreditation. ATDC is accredited by these international organizations to conduct these training courses. Employment of these youth with this level of training would be no problem.

The Guest of Honour for the event was Puan Hjh Rosliah bte Hj Hasbollah, Comissioner of the Labour Department, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Under the program, ATDC will provide free skill training while financial support from HSBC will go towards paying for the youths' personal protective gears and allowances during their training period.

Tareq Muhmood, CEO of HSBC Brunei presented the BND 20,000 sponsorship cheque to Awg Hj Musa bin Hj Adnin, Managing Director of Adinin Group of Companies today.

The training provided by ATDC will equip the unemployed youths with skills needed to gain employment at one of the many oil and gas contractors in Seria and Kuala Belait. After the training, they will then undergo a 3 month attachment at one of the companies that have committed to accommodate the participants; Haji Adinin and Sons Sdn Bhd, Adinin Works & Engineering Sdn Bhd, Seadrill Sdn Bhd, Sahid Sdn Bhd, MOC Sdn Bhd, Megalift Sdn Bhd, Swiber Offshore Construction Pty Ltd.

"We are delighted with the result of the program last year and extremely pleased to be a part of it again. Our contribution today will change the life of these young individuals for years to come." said Tareq Muhmood.

"Quote" from Musa's Speech

"Every youth deserves an opportunity. It is our responsibility and commitment to explore these opportunities and make these available and accessible to them. The Adinin Group to which ATDC belongs, considers this social responsibility as part of its mission as a company and it is our vision to see more youth to participate in this programme and more companies to duplicate it in the future"



HSBC NEWS OCTOBER 2010

HAVE A FUN-FILLED WEEKEND AT THE HSBC ROADSHOW

Thursday, 29th October 2010

HSBC will be hosting an exciting roadshow for the public on the weekend at Atrium – Ground Floor, Times Square. The roadshow is a follow up of the recent launch of the HSBC Wealth Management Campaign and will kick off on Saturday, October 30 until Sunday, October 31.

There will be a series of fabulous games and activities catered especially for all ages as well as the showcasing of a special magic performance by a talented magician throughout the two days.

One of the main activities to be held throughout the two-days roadshow is 'Limbo Rock', where participants can win prizes by showing off their flexibility.

It gets better and more exciting for the second day as there are more fantastic prizes up for grabs. The 'Last Man Standing' will test an individual's strength and the more items they can hold on to the more prizes they can take home. And for those that like to shop, come down to the roadshow and test your knowledge of prices as one lucky winner will go home with a trolley full of groceries when they participate in "Guess and Take Home". Also available will be "The Rice Bowl" where participants will need to use giant chopsticks to move balls from one end to another using boxing gloves.

Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Manager Sales & Distribution, HSBC Brunei explained, "We are looking forward to this weekend. The best part of the whole roadshow is that you don't even have to be a customer. Apart from the exciting games we will also have our staff on hand to do free financial health checks and answer questions the public may have on financial planning be it for their child's education or even to have a dream holiday. "

Dayangku Hamidah also said "Our staff will also be providing information on Wealth Protection, Retirement and even some financial planning tips to grow your money.

      HSBC HELPS SECURE YOUR FUTURE
Wednesday, 27th October 2010

Wealth Management

HSBC branches across the nation are all geared up and motivated for the Wealth Management Campaign. The HSBC managers and staff excitedly launched the Wealth Management Campaign led by Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Manager Sales & Distribution, HSBC Brunei at HSBC Bandar recently.

Dayangku Hamidah said, "It is an opportunity to help our customers to achieve their financial goals in the future with our expertise that we can offer. I believe we can make a difference this year with this recently launched Wealth Management Campaign to further guide them in their financial plans."

HSBC is offering an exciting promotion from 18 October 2010 to 17 January 2011, to sign up now and for any of our comprehensive range of Wealth Management products and enjoy immediate discounts. Anyone interested can walk into the nearest HSBC branch to have an instant financial health check and walk away with a free gift.

HSBC also has accredited financial professionals to develop a tailor made financial plan. During this promotional period, for those interested to sign up for the comprehensive range of Wealth Management products, they stand a chance to win 3Days, 2 Nights round trip getaway for four to Singapore, with entrance to Universal Studios.

Visit HSBC's nearest branch or HSBC's website at hsbc.com.bn for more information.

      HSBC GIVES AWAY $3,000 CASH PRIZE
Wednesday, 13th October 2010


The HSBC Festive Campaign concluded with HSBC announcing the three lucky winners who won themselves BND3,000 each. The prize presentation took place at the HSBC Bandar branch yesterday.

HSBC announced the winners of Week 7, Week 8 and Week 9 of the Festive Campaign. The lucky winners are Mohammad Cyrus Tarip, Jennifer Chong Li Zhen and Mohammad Shafiee Haji Kassim.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei was on hand to present the cash prizes of $3,000 and congratulate the winners. Also present was Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Manager Sales & Distribution.

The lucky winners are customers who used their HSBC cards as well as those who are new applicants for personal loan products for the HSBC Festive Promotion.


      HSBC AND UNICEF UNLEASH ASIA'S POTENTIAL IN GOLD AND EDUCATION
Wednesday, 13th October 2010



HSBC Charity Golf Day supports UNICEF universal primary education programme HSBC Asia-Pacific Chief Executive Peter Wong, UNICEF Ambassador Aaron Kwok and Chairman of UNICEF Hong Kong Committee Judy Chen today met top golfers Zhang Lianwei and Colin Montgomerie on the greens of the Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club to drive forward an education programme for children in Asia as they officiated at this year's HSBC Champions Charity Golf Day.

Held in Hong Kong for the third year, the charity event supports UNICEF's promotion of primary education for children in Asia, and is part of the run-up to HSBC's World Golf Championships (WGC) tournament, which will take place in Shanghai in November.

"It is our long-term commitment to leverage the power of golf as part of our ongoing efforts to unleash Asia's potential to the fullest, whether in golf, business or our future generations," said Peter Wong, Chief Executive, HSBC Asia-Pacific, as he officiated at the opening of the HSBC Charity Golf Day. "Last year, we forged a significant milestone in golf history by bringing to Asia its only WGC level tournament. This year HSBC continues to partner with UNICEF in supporting the future of children through the WGC-HSBC Champions, now Asia's Major. As players swing their golf clubs, they are also propelling forward primary education for children in Asia."

HSBC is committed to the development of communities wherever it operates. Through the WGC-HSBC Champions, the bank is supporting UNICEF's education programmes in Asia. This year, the focus is to enhance equality in primary and early childhood education in the region through UNICEF's Child-Friendly Schools programme which seeks to make schools inclusive, child-centred, protective, safe, healthy, gendersensitive and engaged with communities and families. The programme is being implemented in 60 countries globally and in nearly 20 countries in East Asia and the Pacific region, and will also help advocate free or subsidised early childhood education for underprivileged children.

"In spite of the general improvement in quality of life in Asia, today, 7 million children in Asia are still unable to attend school. We are striving to accelerate towards universal primary education for all: our target is to ensure that the vast majority of children, regardless of race and gender, will receive full primary education by 2015, the year the Millennium Development Goals are to be accomplished," said Judy Chen, Chairman of UNICEF Hong Kong Committee. "There is a pressing need to promote universal primary education in the region. We thank HSBC, the golfers and all participants for their generous support to help children receive basic education, a fundamental right. As they aim for the championship, they are paving the way for our children to become the champions of tomorrow."

One of the ways HSBC help promote universal primary education in the region is to provide teaching materials for underprivileged primary school children. At the event, HSBC Asia-Pacific Chief Executive Peter Wong and UNICEF Ambassador Aaron Kwok together unwrapped a "School-in-a-box" kit and revealed a selection of teaching materials and stationery to be given to the children.

Aaron Kwok was joined by Peter Wong, Judy Chen, Colin Montgomerie and Zhang Lianwei in the putting ceremony, signaling the start of the Charity Golf Day to drive support for UNICEF as it seeks to make many children’s wish for education come true.

Participants in today's Charity Golf Day are HSBC's generous customers in Hong Kong as well as winners from the local golf days held earlier in Singapore, Malaysia, Brunei and Sri Lanka. They played alongside two golf legends - captain of the 2010 European Ryder Cup team, Colin Montgomerie, and the first Chinese golfer to play in the Masters Tournament, Zhang Lianwei. The winner of today's event will be playing in the Pro-Am Competition with one of the star players competing in the WGC-HSBC Champions. Altogether, golf days have to date successfully raised HK$1.5 million for UNICEF to promote universal primary education in the region.

Now in its sixth year, HSBC Champions was described by Tiger Woods as "the crowning jewel of all of Asian golf" when it was raised to WGC status in 2009. About 78 top golfers, including Tiger Woods, Lee Westwood and defending champion Phil Mickelson will be competing for the most-coveted prize in Asian golf and a US$7 million purse. The tournament will take place at Sheshan International Golf Club in Shanghai on 4-7 November 2010.


      HSBC GOLFERS PLAY IN HK FINAL
Tuesday, 12th October 2010



HSBC sent off two best scorers from the previous HSBC Charity Golf Tournament held in June 2010, to Hong Kong at the Brunei International Airport yesterday.

The two best scoring HSBC Premier Customers, Yussof Daud and Dr. Ding Pei Kong were invited to compete in the HSBC Regional Finals at the Clearwater Bay Golf & Country Club, Hong Kong on the 12th October for the chance to play in the WGC-HSBC Champions Pro-Am in Shanghai which will be held in November this year.

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei together with their respective relationship managers was on hand to congratulate and send them off. On behalf of HSBC, he wished them all the best in the HSBC Regional Finals.


      HSBC BRANCHES CELEBRATES RAYA WITH CUSTOMERS
Monday, 11th October 2010



All HSBC branches celebrated Hari Raya with the customers recently. There were a lot of exciting activities for customers and awesome prizes given away to the lucky winners for this festive celebration.

At Serusop branch, customers simply love where they could enjoy refreshments provided and able to mingle with the Senior Management. Present at the event were Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive officer, HSBC Brunei, Dk. Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Manager Sales and Distribution, Siti Rozainah Dato Paduka Haji Yunos, Manager Service and Support. More than 100 customers attended the event as the invitation was opened to public. On Phui Li, Serusop Retail Store Manager commented, "The lively event invited children to join the activities organized such as guessing games and doing simple maths." She was on hand to present a gift to the proud lucky winner, Marcus Miles, who successfully guessed the number of candies in the bowl.

Meanwhile at Bandar branch, HSBC staff entertained the customers by singing classic popular Hari Raya songs. Also present was Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei The local talent, Zul F, whom is going to release his album sometime this year and has shot a videoclip in MTV, was one of the customers who attended the event and he was invited to sing with the HSBC staff. He wooed the crowd by belting out a popular number by Al-yarham Sudirman. Rohani Salleh, Bandar Branch manager said, "Hari Raya is a time for celebration and day of our victory after a period of fasting. In HSBC, having the open house is one way for us to celebrate the blessed festival with our customers. This open house has strengthened our relationship with our customers and indeed we are very delightful to see it has build a great turn up amongst customers themselves who has joined us for the open house today.

The highlight at Seri Complex branch were the fabulous activities such as green packets fishing opened to all age group, guessing the number of Ketupats in the basket and making of green packets competition especially for the children. Hazlim Jack Leece, the Seri Complex branch manager, said, "Customers were very delighted with the open house celebration, they enjoyed the homey atmosphere where the branch staff has turned the banking hall into a living room. We have a customer, Mr Shakeel, from Canada. He was on holiday in Brunei and he was so happy to be able to be a part of our Hari Raya Open House celebration. He was amazed to see the banking hall was magically transformed to resemble a homey living room. He felt the warmth welcome by the branch staff and it is indeed one celebration that he never experienced before." The winner for the guessing the number of Ketupats in the basket was, Hwong Lik Mei, while the consolation winners were Alinor Mohd Noor and Michael Tan. Additionally, the winner for making the Green Packet competition was Md. Hassan Syaibani bin Haji Hardifadhillah.


      HSBC HOLDS BLOOD DONATION DRIVE
Thursday, 07th October 2010
Over 54 HSBC staff, customers and members of the public rolled up their sleeves to donate blood towards the National Blood Bank Reserve at the HSBC Business Processing Centre yesterday.

Over half of the donors were females and most of them were regular donors.

The blood donation drive was organised under the bank's Corporate Sustainability programme along with medical officers from RIPAS Hospital.

The blood donation drive was organised under the bank's Corporate Sustainability programme along with medical officers from RIPAS Hospital.

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive officer, HSBC Brunei, too came forward for the cause Tareq said, "Our annual blood donation drives are marked as important events in our calendar. We recognise that at times, donating money and time is not enough and a blood donation is one of the easiest and most important donations one can make. I am extremely proud that there is a strong sense of responsibility that is ingrained amongst HSBC staff and that they are here today."

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive officer, HSBC Brunei, too came forward for the cause Tareq said, "Our annual blood donation drives are marked as important events in our calendar. We recognise that at times, donating money and time is not enough and a blood donation is one of the easiest and most important donations one can make. I am extremely proud that there is a strong sense of responsibility that is ingrained amongst HSBC staff and that they are here today."

Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Brunei added, "HSBC holds regular blood Donation drives to increase awareness of the need to constantly replenish the stock of blood. As blood cannot be manufactured, the only way to maintain the supply is through regular donations."

      HSBC BRUNEI STAFF'S TRIUMPHANT RETURN FROM TRIATHLON 2010
Friday, 01st October 2010



HSBC's Fiona Goh from Global Service Delivery recently returned to Brunei after participating in the HSBC Best Place to Workout Triathlon 2010 held at Dorney Lake in Eton, United Kingdom.

Ms Goh shares her experience," I took part in this event as I wanted to take up the challenge of the 10km run. I have never ran this far before, but believed that I can do it if I put my mind to it. I had a great time participating in this event as it was a big challenge for me and it's my first time joining a triathlon. I was in the relay team. Teamwork is key to the success of the team. I was assigned to the 10km run and it was a great accomplishment for me to finish the run in 49 minutes in the freezing cold weather."

She added, "I think that it was a great experience for me to travel to a foreign country alone and meet new people from different cultures. We also visited the HSBC Group Headquarters in Canary Wharf, London. It was breathtaking. I hope that I am given another chance to participate in the next Triathlon."

There were 400 HSBC employees and 1,000 corporate guests that took part in the event that aimed to raise funds for selected HSBC sustainability projects, such as the successful rebuilding and rehabilitating of schools and orphanages in the UK, India, and the Philippines in 2008 and 2009.

      HSBC GIVES AWAY $2000 GRAND HAMPERS
Friday, 01st October 2010



The HSBC Festive Shopping Promotion at the Utama Grand Superstore & Jaya Hypermart concluded today with, HSBC announcing the two Grand prize winners who won themselves a hamper worth BND2,000 each. The prize presentation took place at the Utama Grand Superstore, The Mall Gadong.

The HSBC Festive Shopping Promotion was open to all shoppers who used their HSBC credit cards at the Utama Grand and Jaya Hypermart. On top of the two Grand prize winners, HSBC also awarded 10 consolation prize winners with a hamper worth BND200 each.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei was on hand to present the respective hampers to the ecstatic winners and to congratulate them.

The Grand Prize winners who walked away with the BND2,000 hampers were Fong Yeh Ying and Natarajan Vishwanathan. The consolation prize winners were as follows:

      1. Pg Hj Muhammad Pg Duraman
      2. Eny Erlangga
      3. Hairulniza Khairul Annuar
      4. Zulbahri bin Achee
      5. Hj Ali Amzah Hj Mahmud
      6. D M D Dissanayake
      7. Hjh Rokiah Hj Hamid
      8. Justina Sia Hui Sean
      9. Mohammad Nooh Hj Abd Razak
      10. Mary Anne U. Pascual


HSBC NEWS SEPTEMBER 2010

HSBC LUCKY WINNER TAKE HOME $3000

Tuesday, 28th September 2010



Tuesday, 28 September 2010 - HSBC held a prize presentation in Bandar branch today for the winners of Week 5 and Week 6 of the HSBC Festive Campaign. The lucky winners were Sabri Abd Hamid and Damian Teo Kok Chiang who each won themselves $3,000. Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei was on hand to present the cash prize of $3,000. Also present was Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Manager Sales & Distribution.

Sabri said excitedly, "I'm so happy because I didn't expect to win at all. I still remember seeing the promotion and deciding to swipe my card hoping to be one of the lucky winners. Thankfully, my wish came through. Once I've receive my cash prize, I will spend it wisely."

"I was very surprised when I was called up as the winner for this promotion. I feel so excited and after getting my hands on my cash prize, I will invest it back to HSBC," said Damian enthusiastically.

The Festive Promotion which runs until 30 September 2010, offers lucky draw chances to win weekly cash prizes of BND3,000 to cardholders who use their HSBC cards as well as to new applicants for personal loan products.

For further details about HSBC's promotions and its products and services, visit your nearest HSBC branches.

      HSBC HOMELOAN CENTRE CELEBRATES RAYA
Thursday, 28th September 2010



HSBC welcomes its customers to celebrate Hari Raya during the HSBC 'open branch' on Friday, 24th September 2010.

Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Retail Banking & Wealth Management Sales and Support Manager, HSBC Brunei said, "The Hari Raya open house concept was well received by customers last year and we decided to do it again this year. There will be light refreshment, games and entertainment prepared for the day."

HSBC staffs have decorated their respective branches for the preparation of the Hari Raya open house which is just around the corner. Dayang Rohani Haji Mohd Salleh, Bandar Branch Manager, HSBC Brunei added, "We want our customers to feel the joy of Hari Raya and we would like to share the Raya spirits with them. My team has been very excited in flashing their creativities and has been enjoying themselves in doing the decoration. This year's decoration consists of the olden and modern day concepts."

HSBC cordially invites their customers for the Hari Raya 'open branch' this coming Friday through all the branches where customers can visit their preferred branch during the normal operational hour from 8.45a.m. to 4.00p.m. While for Serusop branch, with its extended hours, it is open from 9.00a.m. to 9.00p.m. To make this event more memorable, the branch managers will be at their respective branches to celebrate and mingle with the customers.

      TEEYEEM MAJEED COMPANY WINS HSBC THIRD LUCKY DRAW
Tuesday, 28th September 2010



HSBC Brunei held a prize presentation event on Tuesday 28 September 2010 for the winners of the third Monthly Draw in the bank's Trade and Supply Chain Campaign.

The fortunate winner of the third Monthly Draw was the Teeyem Majeed Company which won a HP Colour LaserJet printer.

Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking was on hand to present and congratulate the representative from Teeyem Majeed Company.

The Trade and Supply Chain Campaign will run until 15 November 2010. Customers who successfully complete trade transactions during this period will earn themselves one chance per transaction towards winning laser jet printers in the Monthly Draws. At the end of the promotion period, another grand draw will be held for the chance to win an office makeover worth BND 6,000.

      HSBC CELEBRATES HARI RAYA IN STYLE
Tuesday, 28th September 2010

HSBC gave their customers a treat by inviting them to their Hari Raya Open House which was held recently at the Indera Kayangan Ballroom, The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

The venue was tastefully decorated with the "Balik Kampung" theme with a constant play of Hari Raya music to further enliven the Hari Raya spirit during the event.

To set the ambience for the event, staffs of HSBC were dressed up in traditional costumes giving a warm impression for the attending guests.

Customers with their families were joined by the senior management and staff of HSBC for the celebration among which included CEO of HSBC Brunei Tareq Muhmood, and Deputy CEO Rosdi Amin Yaakub.

Also present was Irene Tse, head of Corporate Banking and Nabel Huwazan, chief of Technology and Services.

Tareq pointed out that about 1000 people had attended the celebration and the HSBC wanted to produce a different raya atmosphere for their customers as compared to the past years. He added that it was a chance for the staff of HSBC to mingle with their customers in a laid back atmosphere, away from the work place.

Apart from the delicious buffet spread provided, HSBC had given their attending customers a treat with entertainments such as Gulingtangan performance by Irama Bahtera, a Sinjang making demonstration by Lively Dancers and a Jawi Calligraphy demonstration courtesy of the Language and Literature Bureau (DBP).

As for the children attending the celebration, they took part in the Ketupat making demonstration and had fun at the Kids Corner where they were able to engage in traditional games like Congkak, Tingting (hop-scotch) and Kiram (Carom) with their peers. For further details about HSBC's promotions and its products and services, visit your nearest HSBC branches.

      HSBC SETS HARI RAYA AMBIENCE FOR OPEN 'BRANCH'
Tuesday, 07th September 2010


HSBC welcomes its customers to celebrate Hari Raya during the HSBC 'open branch' on Friday, 24th September 2010.

Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Retail Banking & Wealth Management Sales and Support Manager, HSBC Brunei said, "The Hari Raya open house concept was well received by customers last year and we decided to do it again this year. There will be light refreshment, games and entertainment prepared for the day."

HSBC staffs have decorated their respective branches for the preparation of the Hari Raya open house which is just around the corner. Dayang Rohani Haji Mohd Salleh, Bandar Branch Manager, HSBC Brunei added, "We want our customers to feel the joy of Hari Raya and we would like to share the Raya spirits with them. My team has been very excited in flashing their creativities and has been enjoying themselves in doing the decoration. This year's decoration consists of the olden and modern day concepts."

HSBC cordially invites their customers for the Hari Raya 'open branch' this coming Friday through all the branches where customers can visit their preferred branch during the normal operational hour from 8.45a.m. to 4.00p.m. While for Serusop branch, with its extended hours, it is open from 9.00a.m. to 9.00p.m. To make this event more memorable, the branch managers will be at their respective branches to celebrate and mingle with the customers.

      HSBC PAYS TRIBUTE TO HM'S PARENTS
Thursday, 09th September 20100



Recently, HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body held a tahlil ceremony for His Majesty the Sultan and Yang di-Pertuan's late parents, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien and Al-Marhumah Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit at the Royal Mausoleum, Jalan Kubah makam Diraja.

Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body, Rosdi Amin Yaakub led the ceremony which consisted of 40 HSBC employees.

The religious rites began with the recital of Surah Yassin, tahlil prayers and doa arwah led by an officer of the Mosque Affairs Department.

Pengiran Shahbudin bin Pengiran Abdul Rahman, a member of HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body committee commented, "We organise the event annually for our HSBC staff to convey blessings to our beloved relatives, friends and families who passed away. I am happy with the overwhelming response from all the departments and branches in attending this event."

The tahlil ceremony represents one of the religious activities conducted by HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body annually to obtain blessings during the holy month of Ramadhan.

      BND3000 FOR TWO MORE FESTIVE CAMPAIGN LUCKY WINNERS
Tuesday, 07th September 2010



HSBC held a prize presentation in Bandar branch on Tuesday, 07 September 2010 for the winners of Week 3 and Week 4 of the Festive Campaign. The lucky third and fourth week winners were Madam Lau Lan Hwa and Mr. Tan Yah Tak who each won themselves $3,000. Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei was on hand to present the cash prize of $3,000.

The Festive Promotion which runs until 30 September 2010, offers lucky draw chances to win weekly cash prizes of BND3,000 to cardholders who use their HSBC cards as well as to new applicants for personal loan products.

Dayangku Hamidah Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Retail Banking & Wealth Management Sales and Support Manager, HSBC Brunei commented, "I'm glad that we have launched this Festive Campaign as we want to reward our loyal customers and help them in preparation for the upcoming Hari Raya. We have received overwhelming response from our customers on the promotion. For those HSBC card holders and and those applying for personal loan products, they still have an opportunity to win the cash prizes during this Festive Promotion."

In the month of Ramadhan, the Festive Promotion is one of the main offers launched by HSBC alongside other exciting credit card promotions to reward its cardholders with more value on their card usage, be it on "sungkai" dining or preparations for the upcoming Hari Raya celebration. From 11 August until 10 September 2010, customers who swipe their HSBC credit cards when they dine at selected dining merchants will enjoy 10 times rewards points and 10% off their total bill. During the same period, HSBC cardholders also enjoy ZERO service fee if they take up the 6 or 12-month SmartPay's 0% Interest Instalment Plan for their festive purchases.

Customers who shop at Utama Grand and Jaya Hypermart with HSBC credit cards will receive entries to win any of the 10 hampers worth BND200 and 2 grand hampers worth BND2,000 each. This offer will end on 19 September 2010.

For further details about HSBC's promotions and its products and services, visit your nearest HSBC branches.

      HSBC STAFF RECEIVES EDUCATION IN CLIMATE CHANGE
Monday, 06th September 2010



Around the world, the impacts of climate change can already be seen and felt and will continue to affect not only HSBC's customers but its operations as well, which is why the issue is central to HSBC's long term business strategy.

In 2007, HSBC launched one of its major environmental programmes, 'The HSBC Climate Partnership' - in collaboration with the Earthwatch Institute, the Climate Group (an international non-governmental organisation), the Smithsonian Tropical Research Institute and the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).

Tackling climate change requires a combined effort between individuals, businesses and governments, thus the HSBC Climate Partnership aims to combat the urgent threat change by encouraging them to take action. These actions include reducing the carbon emissions of major cities, measuring the effects of climate change on the world's forests and engaging people in climate action and research.

The year 2009 saw a milestone for HSBC Brunei with the establishment of a 25-hectare forest dynamic research plot at Kuala Belalong Field Study Centre. This project came to fruition with the support of the Forestry Department, Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) and set under the Heart of Borneo Initiative.

The research plot brings together researchers from UBD, Center for Tropical Forest Science at Smithsonian Tropical Research Institution (STRI) and Harvard University in assisting scientists to monitor the impact of climate change on forest biodiversity and ecosystems.

In order to inspire changes within its organization, HSBC employees from around the world are invited to participate in the 'Climate Champion Programme'. Successful applicants will spend a fortnight at one of five regional centres found in India, China, Brazil, Great Britain and the USA. Through the Climate Camp programme, employees will meet a diverse network of colleagues from around the world and develop business projects designed to help reduce HSBC's impact on the environment. To date, more than 2,000 HSBC employees have been trained as climate champions. HSBC Brunei is proud to have 4 local employees trained as climate champions.

Inspired by the teachings of the Regional Climate Center, Climate Champions from HSBC Brunei are holding their own mini 'Climate Champion Programme'. Themed as the "Climate Camp" the 2 day sessions are held throughout the year at the Kuala Belalong Field Study Centre (KBFSC). Throughout the two day programme, HSBC employees will get a taste of the full two week programme and be presented with an opportunity to experience firsthand the lush rainforests in Brunei and assist with real scientific research.

Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability HSBC Brunei said, "We are proud to be able to offer this experience to our own employees. Our global Climate Champion Programme is seen to be pioneering and to be able to recreate that here is fantastic. Our employees enjoy the opportunity to learn more about the environment in a natural setting.

Recently a group of the bank's employees embarked on the latest session of the climate camp. Throughout the two day period, employees learnt about the role of forests in regulating atmospheric carbon and how the destruction and degradation of forests can contribute to the alarming rate of global greenhouse gas emissions.

Employees also participated in real scientific fieldworks, which are imperative to the current ongoing research.

Mohd Ramadey Hazimin, a staff member of HSBC Brunei said "Coming to climate camp has opened my eyes. It has made me more aware of the needs of the environment. I also have a better appreciation on the project that we sponsored and the hard work that the scientists are doing to better understand impact of climate change on forests and vice versa".

      FIONA GOH REPRESENTS BRUNEI FOR TRI-ATHLON 2010
Friday, 03rd September 2010



The blessed month of Ramadhan is more than just a month of fasting, it is a time for charity towards those who are less fortunate and a time to strengthen family ties. It is in this spirit that the HSBC Bandar branch recently hosted an iftar gathering for its staff and their family members at the Royal Brunei Catering on 01 September 2010.

Rohani hj Mohd Salleh, Bandar Branch Manager, HSBC Brunei said: This gathering is the perfect setting for the team to socialise away from work while also spending time with their loved ones. It also presents the opportunity for staff family members to mingle amongst each other and create friendships which is part of the beauty of this holy month.

       HSBC TRADE & SUPPLY CHAIN CAMPAIGN WINNERS AWARDED CONSULTANT® (ChFC®) DESIGNATION
Thursday, 02nd September 2010



Sin Han Kee Trading emerged as the winner of the HSBC Trade and Supply Chain Campaign, winning itself a 4D3N vacation to Shanghai, China. Meanwhile, a HP Colour LaserJet printer was awarded to Goldmyne Hardware Sdn Bhd for being picked the monthly draw winner.

Held at the HSBC branch in the capital yesterday morning, the event saw Corporate Banking Head Irene Tse handing out prizes to the company representatives.

Irene commented on the objective of the campaign, saying "Our target is to strengthen existing trade customer relations and to promote our trade brand awareness for HSBC Trade Services. With over 8,000 offices in 87 countries and territories, HSBC Trade and Supply is a key strategic business with experienced service delivery for trade products to mitigate risk of a company. Customers were pleased with the services we have provided them."

The Trade and Supply Chain campaign will be ongoing until November 15. Customers who successfully complete trade transactions during this period will earn themselves one chance per transaction towards winning laser jet printers during the monthly draws.

Another grand draw will be held for the chance to win an office makeover worth 6,000 once the promotion period ends.

      HSBC BANDAR BRANCH GATHERS STAFF FOR SUNGKAI DINNER
Wednesday, 01st September 2010



The blessed month of Ramadhan is more than just a month of fasting, it is a time for charity towards those who are less fortunate and a time to strengthen family ties. It is in this spirit that the HSBC Bandar branch recently hosted an iftar gathering for its staff and their family members at the Royal Brunei Catering on 01 September 2010.

Rohani hj Mohd Salleh, Bandar Branch Manager, HSBC Brunei said: This gathering is the perfect setting for the team to socialise away from work while also spending time with their loved ones. It also presents the opportunity for staff family members to mingle amongst each other and create friendships which is part of the beauty of this holy month.


HSBC NEWS AUGUST 2010

HSBC TREATS PREMIER CUSTOMERS SUNGKAI DINNNER

Tuesday, 31th August 2010



HSBC Premier held a combined Sungkai and Appreciation Event for its Premier customers in conjunction with the fasting month of Ramadhan.

The sungkai and appreciation dinners were held at both The Rivera Cafe on 31 August 2010 by HSBC Premier, Kuala Belait and on 01 September at The Empire Hotel Atrium Cafe by HSBC Premier, Bandar.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, hosted the event and wished the customers a warm welcome. Also present were HSBC senior managers and employees.

The event was held to show appreciation for the loyalty of HSBC Premier customers and at the same time bind ties between staff and customers.

      HSBC GIVES AWAY IPAD
Friday, 27th August 2010



Friday, 27Aug - HSBC gave away an Apple iPad today which marked the end of the four week long HSBC Advance online challenge on Facebook. The event took place at the Banking Hall in the main branch in the Capital.

The four week competition started on 26 July and was open to all HSBC-Brunei Facebook fans. Each week a task was presented on Facebook and for every successfully completed task participants would earn a chance towards winning the Apple iPad. Some participants managed to accumulate a maximum of four chances when they successfully completed all four tasks.

Also present was Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management. The lucky winner Norsuriaashikin Hj Ismail was all smiles today when Dayangku Hamidah binti Pengiran Haji Othman, Senior Retail Banking & Wealth Management Sales and Support Manager, HSBC Brunei congratulated and presented her with the prize.

"When I got the call from HSBC to say I was the winner, I was so shocked and kept asking if it was true. I just couldn't believe my luck!" said Norsuria in joy.

HSBC Advance was launched last March with the promise of benefits which includes preferential rates on a range of products, annual fee waivers on HSBC Advance cards and access to a team of accredited financial planners.

From now until 7 October this year HSBC Advance customers can enjoy shopping vouchers when they take up unit trusts and also special offers on purchases of Life insurance and Non-Life insurance.

To learn more about the benefits and fascinating offers of HSBC Advance, please log on to www.hsbcadvance.com.bn For further details about HSBC's exciting promotions, please log onto our facebook on HSBC fan page, while for Apple iPhone users, please download on HSBC applications.

      HSBC SPENDS VALUABLE SUNGKAI TIME WITH THE ORPHANS
Saturday, 21st August 2010



In conjunction with the holy month of Ramadhan, and in the spirit of caring and giving, HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body and HSBC Corporate Sustainability Committee joined effort in hosting the 5th annual tahlil and doa arwah ceremony with 50 children on Saturday, 21 August at the HSBC Main Officer in Bandar.

The event, which was attended by HSBC staffs and the guardians of the orphanage, commenced with a tahlil and doa arwah ceremony to convey blessings to our beloved relatives, friends and families who passed away.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Chairman of HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body, delivered his welcoming address, "This is a yearly event organised by HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body whereby funds were contributed by HSBC's Islamic Welfare Body and Corporate Sustainability Committee including other Muslim staff. Hopefully, the contribution will be put to good use and in conjunction with Raya, it can ease the burden of Raya preparation. We want to share our contributions with children that had lost their loved ones, as we believe that by sharing with them we can make a difference in their lives".

"This is our first time that we have been invited to such a function. I am grateful to HSBC for giving us such a treat and we really appreciate it. We feel blessed and thankful to HSBC for organising such a meaningful event", said one of the guardians.

The act of fasting teaches Muslims to practice self-discipline, self-control, sacrifice and empathy for those who are less fortunate; thus encouraging actions of generosity and charity.

      HSBC LAUNCHES 'INDAHNYA RAMADHAN' CHARITY DRIVE FOR THOSE IN NEED
Wednesday, 18th August 2010



In celebration of the holy month of Ramadhan, HSBC Brunei has launched its charity drive 'Indahnya Ramadhan' aimed to collect donations for those who are less fortunate.

The bank recently held a small event to officially launch the charity drive which was officiated by Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei and Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei.

Also present at the launch were members of the senior management as well as bank staff.

Rosdi said, "Ramadhan is a special month for the Muslim community and it is a time for us to also remember those who are far less fortunate and are in need. With this charity drive, it is our sincere hope that the funds from this charity drive will benefit many and represent our customers' generosity."

"All proceeds from this charity drive will be donated to the Department of Community Development, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports" he added.

'Indahnya Ramadhan' comes in the form of a puzzle which is made up of 2,500 pieces. For each one dollar donated, customers will be allocated one puzzle piece where they may sign their names if they wish. Customers will also receive a thank you card as a token of appreciation. Donations to the 'Indahnya Ramadhan' Charity Drive can be made through any HSBC branch as well HSBC Finance at Sumbangsih Bahagia. This annual charity drive was organised by the bank's Retail Banking & Wealth Management department.

Rohani Hj Mohd Salleh, Branch Manager, HSBC Brunei said: "One of the core values in the bank's Corporate Sustainability programme is our responsibilities towards the welfare of the community and society. My team and I are delighted to be able to give back to the community especially during this blessed month and this gives us genuine pride."

      HSBC ENLIGHTENS STUDENTS ON MONEY MANAGEMENT
Monday, 16th August 2010



In an attempt to promote a financial future away from excessive personal debt, HSBC Brunei has put together a money management workshop tailored for students in primary schools as part of its ongoing effort in contributing to the community.

"At HSBC, we observe a need to protect the financial future of our younger generation. Money management is important for financial well-being. To achieve adequate financial freedom as adults, it is crucial for individuals to start acquiring the skills necessary to effectively manage their own finances at a young age. We are extremely excited for the opportunity to share financial knowledge which can cultivate a positive attitude towards money and its management", said Salyahrinah DP Hj Yahya, Treasurer of Global Markets, HSBC Brunei.

For a start, the programme was rolled out to four primary schools across various districts. Over 30 HSBC staff volunteered to facilitate the workshops. Each workshop was timed to run for two hours, and consisted of a presentation and a team activity.

"Our workshop was aimed to underline the importance of saving money in a fun and interactive learning environment. The contents were specifically designed to enhance students' understanding of money as well as to introduce tips and flairs that could be applied in their daily lives", said Hiew Tzee Yin, a money market dealer of HSBC, who was also the programme planner and activity deviser.

The workshop began with an icebreaker game. "The icebreaker was intended to break social barriers the students might have for our staff volunteers. We wanted to create an engaging and positive setting for the students so they could relax and interact freely", said Diana Han, a foreign exchange dealer of HSBC.

After the icebreaker, the workshop officially started with a light presentation. Students were shown colourful slides with clear contents illustrating the sources of income and reasons for expense. The presentation continued with captivating stories and examples which demonstrated the differences between needs and wants in ways easily comprehensible by primary students.

"It is beneficial for children to identify the things they need from the things they want. Being aware of these two distinctions can unconsciously beget an individual to exercise self control which will prevent him or her from spending on unnecessary things and falling into a debt loop", said Hiew Tzee Yin.

The presentation was followed by a workgroup activity where students were divided into teams of eight and facilitated by HSBC staff volunteers. The activity started out with a couple of role-playing scenarios where students pretended to be a fictional character on a route to acquire money management skills while solving puzzles and other fun bits along the way.

"We are very encouraged by the positive response we received from participating schools and our own staff volunteers. We wish to thank everyone for their support and feedback. The invaluable feedback will help us to revise and improve the programme", said Salyahrinah Yahya.

"Financial knowledge at a young age helps children to understand the value of money and allows them to gain control of their finances earlier in life. We are committed to make this money management workshop a yearly initiative", said Lim Boon Teck, Corporate Sustainability Manager of HSBC Brunei.

The workshops, held at respective schools, were attended by over 180 students from Sekolah Rendah Sultan Hassan Bangar in Temburong, Sekolah Rendah Tumpuan Telisai in Tutong, Sekolah Rendah Raja Isteri Fatimah in Bandar Seri Begawan and Sekolah Rendah Muhammad Alam in Kuala Belait. All the students received new HSBC backpacks as a token of encouragement.

The initiative was led by Global Markets department of HSBC Brunei. Global Markets manages the bank's treasury operations, largely involving balance sheet management and foreign exchange sales.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and Sustainability initiatives, visit http://www.hsbc.com.bn/1/2/about-hsbc/corporate-sustainability.

      BOSMA SDN BHD WALKS AWAY WITH DOUBLE PRIZES IN HSBC BUSINESS INTERNET BANKING CAMPAIGN!
Friday, 13th August 2010

Friday, 13Aug2010 - Bosma Sdn Bhd walked away as the winner for both the grand and monthly draw prizes of the Business Internet Banking campaign. The company won themselves a Netbook as well as a luxurious company retreat package for ten people at the Empire Hotel and Country Club.

Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking HSBC Brunei, presented Mrs Bong Sin Jil who represented Bosma Sdn Bhd with both prizes.

Harbour-Link Lines (B) Sdn Bhd also won a Netbook in the campaign's July monthly draw. The prize presentation was held at the banking hall of the HSBC Bandar branch.

During the three month long Business Internet Banking Campaign which ended last month, customers who performed telegraphic transactions via HSBCnet or Business Internet Banking saved up to 50% on the cable fee and received chances towards winning prizes in the monthly and grand draws.

Irene Tse said: More and more of our customers prefer to do their business banking online and we are proud to offer them industry recognised service. Our business internet banking was recently awarded Best Corporate or Institutional Internet Bank in Brunei for the third year running.

To find out more about HSBC's Commercial banking services, visit www.hsbc.com.bn/commercial

      HSBC BRUNEI HOLDS CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY SEMINAR
Friday, 06th August 2010

In further demonstration of HSBC Brunei's ongoing commitment towards Corporate Sustainability efforts, the bank held an 'Activate CSR' (Corporate Social Responsibility) seminar at the Mutiara Ballroom of the Radisson Hotel in the capital today.

The seminar was attended by over 100 individuals from the public and private sector, all keen to learn how they can introduce corporate social responsibility practices to their businesses.

HSBC Brunei invited Ms. Rikke Netterstrom1 from CSR Asia2 to conduct the half day seminar, where participants learnt how to implement environmentally and socially responsible business practices as well as receive guidance on how to build a sustainable business while improving its operating efficiency.

The half day session started with a welcome speech from Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking, HSBC Brunei who said: To continue to do business in the long term - sustainability has to be integral to what we do and, needless to say, more and more businesses around the world are beginning to realise this.

Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Brunei also shared with the participants of the bank's perspective's of Responsibility versus Sustainability.

A lively Q & A and sharing session was held after the seminar with Ms Netterstrom where participants took the opportunity to gain more insight into CSR practices.

For more information about HSBC Brunei's Corporate Sustainability initiatives visit www.hsbc.com.bn p or the latest promotion offerings.  

      HSBC BRUNEI HOLDS EXEMPLARY STAFF
Thursday, 05th August 2010

HSBC Brunei yesterday held its second staff recognition event to acknowledge their staff who have shown exceptional performance in customer service.

The event, with the main aim of celebrating those who have been recognised by management and their peers for service excellence was held at the banking hall of the HSBC branch in the capital and was attended by over 60 staff from various departments, branches and members of the senior management.

Jakiah Junin and Zetty Moira Abdul Rahman, both of the HSBC Seri Complex branch and Md Ismady Md Yussof from Gadong Branch each won a service elite award, by being providers of consistent and high level customer experience to their customers.

Teoh Teng Huai from Seri Complex was named as a Star Performer as a new comer to the bank while Dk Yani Suriana Pg Hj Yahya, Erni Amat, Ummu Kulthum Taip and Hj Md Khairuddin Hj Md Kassim of Service Delivery, Md Salridhwanshah Hj Shahari, Siti Mainadeera Abdullah and Md Hadizan Hj Harris of Consumer Credit Risk, Jimmy Khoo Chi Yaw and Ernie Jamil of Security & Fraud Risk, Tan Boon Sin of Technical Services and Lim Shia Khim of Change Delivery, Haryani Hj Md Taib of Service Quality all received best internal service partner awards. The bank's branches in Kuala Belait, Seri Complex and Tutong all won the Outstanding Retail Store Service Awards for the months of April, May and June respectively. All three branches received the highest scores from the regional mystery shopper programme.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management said: At HSBC, we truly believe our employees are our greatest asset. By investing in people and making the Bank a better place to work, we're building a better business both today and for the future.

HSBC Brunei prides itself as an organisation that places great emphasis on offering outstanding customer services as well as conducting business with due skill, care and diligence.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its products and services, visit your nearest HSBC branch.

      HSBC BRUNEI CORPORATE BANKING HOLDS TALK ON INTERNATIONAL TRADE
Wednesday, 04th August 2010

Global trade is the cornerstone of the world's evolving economy. Whether you are importing or exporting goods or services, you need a trusted partner that can help you navigate through the unique cultural, social and economic conditions of today's international business climate.

Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking, HSBC Brunei said: For businessmen, the choice of a right bank to provide support to their trade is extremely important where both speed and attention to detail are crucial, and in HSBC, we have local trade experts who can ensure that your import and export transactions are managed efficiently and effectively as well as support you wherever you do your business. At HSBC, we make it our business to know your business, intimately and thoroughly.

The HSBC Trade and Supply Chain (TSC) is committed to helping companies of all sizes grow their business. As one of the largest trade services organisations in the world, with dedicated trade service centres in over 60 countries and territories, HSBC has relationships with more suppliers and buyers than any other trade services institution. This unique position allows HSBC to offer faster, more accurate and efficient solutions to its customers globally. Our TSC solutions help streamline and put customers in control of their operations.

Today, over 70 customers attended the Trade Workshop at I-Lotus restaurant organised by HSBC Brunei Corporate Banking.

The workshop was held with the main aim of sharing information and best practices with its customers in HSBC's capacity as a world-recognised advisor on global and local market developments and industry-impacting trends.

Attending the workshop were SME owners as well as senior management and staff of the bank.

David Lee, Relationship Manager, Corporate Banking, HSBC Brunei conducted the half day workshop and imparted valuable knowledge regarding trade opportunities with participants and shared information on how to successfully trade regionally and in the international arena.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its products and services, click online at www.hsbc.com.bn or email commercialbanking@hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC INVITES SMES TO PARTICIPATE IN TRADE WORKSHOP
Monday, 02nd August 2010

HSBC will be hosting a Trade Workshop to equip Small and Medium Enterprise owners with the necessary skills and knowledge to capitalise on trade opportunities in 2010.

Participants will learn about the processes associated with doing business internationally, as well as receiving clarification on the requirements and paperwork needed to successfully trade regionally and in the global market.

With our global reach and local expertise, we are well placed to help exporters and importers reduce their risks when engaging in cross border trade. In the current environment, our customers are increasingly looking overseas for new opportunities and are asking for help with their business decisions. As the leading trade finance bank in Brunei Darussalam, we are committed to helping businesses understand the current environment and learn how to grow their business while protecting their company.

The Trade Workshop is scheduled on the 4th Aug 2010 at iLotus Restaurant from 1.30pm. Interested SMEs can call Nilawati at 2252325 or email commercialbanking@hsbc.com.bn to RSVP by 03 August 2010.


HSBC NEWS JULY 2010

HSBC BRUNEI STAFF CREATES A SUNNIER PLACE IN RIPAS

Tuesday, 27th July 2010

Sustainability is at the very heart of how HSBC does its business. An integral factor in the bank's sustainability initiatives is to contribute positively to the well being of the community in which it operates in as well as build long term relationships that makes a difference to those in need.

It is also ingrained in the bank's working culture where staff are highly encouraged to participate and support activities that benefit society.

Recently, over 40 HSBC Brunei staff volunteered their time to spend a morning painting the Occupational therapy Unit in RIPAS.

The morning started off with a simple donation handing over ceremony where Tsara' Nawwarah Binti Abdullah Chen, Senior Occupational Therapist received soft toys which were donated by HSBC Staff.

Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Brunei said: We are proud to say that we collectively contributed 77 days towards our sustainability projects which includes giving back to the community. Without our staff's efforts and time, none of this would have been possible.

The HSBC Staff volunteers then separated into two teams. Both teams were tasked to paint murals on the walls and to clean up the child care play area.

A well known local artist was present to draw the outlines of the murals and also to provide guidance to the volunteers and added some finishing touch-ups to the painted walls once it was completed by the volunteers. Due to the enthusiasm of the volunteers they were able complete the mural painting well ahead of time.

Light refreshments was served and the volunteers took the opportunity to mingle with the staff that were working at the Occupational Therapy Unit. A group photo session was then held to commemorate the event.

"It is rewarding to see the area transform into such a colourful and friendly place for the children who will be coming in for treatment." said Victor Chan Jia Jiunn, Service Delivery, HSBC Brunei.

While Erni Amat, Delivery HSBC Brunei said: This is my first time as a volunteer but it's really a wonderful experience. Hope the 'colors of love' that we have painted on that day bring a joyful spirit for those who see it. And I loved that everyone worked together to make it happen.

To find out more about HSBC Brunei and its Corporate Sustainability initiatives, visit www.hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC EDUCATES BUSINESSES ON CORPORATE RESPONSIBILITY
Saturday, 24th July 2010

Corporate Sustainability is at the core of how HSBC conducts its business. Its long term strategy and aims are to ensure that the sustainable business policies that it instills internally permeate every level of its business culture.

HSBC is not only focused on building a healthy business for the benefit of all of its stakeholders and customers but also on making positive contributions to the environment and the communities in which it operates. The bank has long identified the need to embrace the responsibility of the impacts of its business activities on the environment, its customers and employees.

In this vein of thought, the bank's Corporate Banking department recently ran a survey called 'Living Business' to gauge its Corporate customers' understanding of Corporate Sustainability (CS) and Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR).

The survey was the bank's first step in introducing 'Living Business' - a programme that will help businesses and companies to become more competitive and productive by incorporating social responsibility and sustainable practices into their operations. The survey which was conducted over a three month period was sent to 3000 companies. For every completed survey form that was submitted, HSBC donated BND 5 to the company's choice of charity.

Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking, HSBC Brunei said: From the results of the survey, we learnt that the level of awareness on CS and CSR among the respondents was low and that CS and CSR practices are not as widespread. One of the main hindrance for customers who do not practice CS/CSR is due to the lack of information that is available to them. It is with great excitement that we will be holding our first 'Living Business' Seminar, which will give our customers the opportunity to learn more about Corporate Sustainability and Corporate Social Responsibility.

HSBC Brunei has invited Ms. Rikke Netterstrom1 from CSR Asia2 as a speaker for its 'Living Business Seminar.' The Seminar will be held at the Mutiara Ballroom of the Radisson Hotel on 6 August 2010. From the half day seminar, participants will be able to learn how to implement environment and socially responsible business practices as well as receive guidance on how to build a sustainable business while improving its operating efficiency.

For more information or to receive an invitation to the seminar, members of the public can call 225 2325 during office hours by 30 July 2010 or alternatively email commercialbanking@hsbc.com.bn.

      15 MORE CUSTOMERS RECEIVE REWARDS FOR HSBC 'THE SALE' CAMPAIGN
Friday, 23rd July 2010

Since May of this year, HSBC has rewarded 20 customers up to a total of BND 10,000 worth of shopping vouchers for successfully applying for various products during the two month 'The Sale' campaign.

Today the bank named 15 more customers as the winners for the final monthly draw and grand prize winners of the campaign. The prize presentation ceremony was held at the bank's main branch in Bandar Seri Begawan.

Mr Rosli Che Aman, Mrs Tieh Thing Guek, Satrina Awang, Tan Chin Huat and Mr Subramanian Balakrishnan emerged as the five Grand Prize winners.

There were smiles all around as all five lucky winners collected their prize winnings from Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei. Each Grand Prize winner receives BND 6,000 in cash to go towards covering the cost of their basic necessities such as utility bills, groceries and school fees.

Also present at the ceremony were the final ten winners of the monthly lucky draw. Rosdi presented BND 500 worth of shopping vouchers each to Yap Tong Tack, Mrs Aparna Chettri Pokharel, Hjh Faridah Zainal Abidin, Roslijah Mat Safar, Tang Wan Ing, Asdeira Lasut, Mr Ta Wei David Mok, Awg Ibnu Shahrinuddin Ibrahim, Lei Ming Yeow and Pg Tuti Noryoul Irwani Pg Ibnu.

HSBC is currently running a Salary Transfer promotion from 12 July until 12 October whereby customers who confirm their participation during the promotion period and transfer their salaries to HSBC by 31 October 2010 will be entered into a lucky draw where 10 fortunate winners will receive a total of up to BND5, 000 each to clear out their outstanding facilities with HSBC or BND1, 000 in their savings/current account if they have no facilities with the bank.

To be eligible for the draw, customers simply need to fill out and submit the Salary Transfer Wipe-Out Offer Form which is made available at any of the bank's branches by the end of the promotion period. For more information regarding this promotion, customers may go online at www.hsbc.com.bn or alternatively call 2 252 296.

      HSBC STAFF EARNS CHARTERED FINANCIAL CONSULTANT® (ChFC®) DESIGNATION
Tuesday, 20th July 2010

Today, fifteen staff from HSBC Brunei received certificates presented by Director General of Education, Pengiran Hajah Mastoli Pengiran Seri Indera Pengiran Ismail. The certificate presentation ceremony took place at the Season's Restaurant at the Centrepoint Hotel in Gadong.

Also present to witness the certificate presentation were Chief Executive Officer HSBC Brunei, Tareq Muhmood and other management members of HSBC Brunei.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Financial Services HSBC Brunei said: Now more than ever, thinking and planning a secure future for your family and yourself has become more important due to the prevailing economic situation in the world today. We regard our staff as our biggest and most valuable assets. It is apt that we encourage them to develop their talents and hone their skills so they can provide the expertise needed for our customers to reach their financial goals.

Individuals who earn a ChFC® designation are qualified to provide expert assistance in a broad range of financial planning topics including wealth accumulation, life and health insurance, investments and retirement planning. They must also fulfill stringent experience and ethics requirements. Over 20 HSBC Brunei staff have been awarded the designation since 2008. These staff have all undergone a 7 course programme which was conducted by the Singapore College of Insurance under licence from The American College.

HSBC Brunei has two Wealth Management Centres; one situated at their BSB branch and the other in Kuala Belait. Both Centres specialise in offering financial planning services which includes a vast range of savings, investment and insurance products available to help customers achieve their financial objectives.

At HSBC, through our free financial planning service and with over 30 accredited wealth management professionals, our objective is to provide appropriate financial solutions in response to our customers' needs through a diversification of options and products that will allow our customers to reach their financial goals.

As part of the diverse range of products we have on offer, customers can choose from traditional term deposit products, and investment and insurance products, the weightings for each type highly depend on each individual customer's needs and risk appetite.

We also provide annual financial reviews for customers who may have undergone an earlier financial review months or years ago. We understand that each customer undergoes different life stages, so their financial needs and goals will change at these different junctures. To accommodate such changes, their financial plans may need to be adjusted. For more information regarding HSBC Brunei and its range of investment products, customers may go online at www.hsbc.com.bn/1/2/personal/investment or alternatively call 2 252 252 or come in to your nearest branch to arrange an appointment.

      YOUNG ASIANS AMONG REGION'S NEW AND GROWING AFFLUENT, SAYS HSBC SURVEY
Wednesday, 14th July 2010

***Affluent Mainlanders, Indians and Indonesians are youngest of Asia's wealthy***
***Hong Kongers are most affluent but Mainlanders lead wealth surge***
***Wave of first-time investors expected from affluent in Greater China***

The majority of affluent Asians say they managed to either keep their wealth intact or grow their net work in early 2010 compared to six months ago. The HSBC Affluent Asian Tracker survey show that affluent Asian investors, among the youngest of the world's wealthy, are riding on the recovery in the world's fastest-growing markets while navigating through continued uncertainty in the West, particulary in Europe. Leading Asia's affluent are 69 per cent of mainland Chinese respondents (vs 70%) who reported a rise in net worth compared to six months ago. The proportion increases to 88 per cent in the Mainland with the addition of the affluent set who maintained their net worth (vs 85%) HSBC Affluent

The third wave of the HSBC Affluent Asian Tracker was conducted by Nielsen for HSBC across 2,078 affluent individuals aged 18-65 in seven key markets from February to April 2010. With the last wave conducted in September to October 2009, the survey gauged the views of people in the top 10 percentile of the population by liquid assets or mortgage value. Details of the survey are attached.

Affluent Mainlanders are the youngest among the region's affluent with an average age of 36, followed by Indians at 38 and Indonesians at 39. Hong Kong's affluent are the oldest, at 48 years on average, and close to four in 10 (39%) are double income couples with no kids (DINKS). At least 10 per cent of affluent respondents in the region, except in Taiwan, are single.

Rosdi Amin, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei said: "Asia's young and upwardly mobile working population is fast accumulating wealth to become this generation's emerging affluent. Their wealth management needs are evolving as they cross over to the next life stages. In many key markets in the region, investments, particularly in local equities, are a key driver to wealth growth. Asia's new affluent, particularly in mainland China, are increasingly becoming savvy investors as they look to other asset classes and to overseas opportunities for diversification."

Liquid assets
Hong Kongers are the most affluent in the region with average liquid assets of US$301,289, nearly double Singapore's US$183,145 and Taiwan's US$155,162. Mainlanders lead Asia's new affluent with US$126,537 worth of liquid assets while Indians' are at US$87,769 and Indonesians' at US$61,697. Malaysia's affluent hold around US$56,891 worth of liquid assets.

Across Asia, over half of liquid assets are in deposits, with affluent Indonesians holding up to 95 per cent in cash. Across Greater China (Hong Kong 44%, Taiwan 42% and mainland China 41%) and India (40%), at least 40 per cent of liquid assets held by affluent individuals are invested in equities, unit trusts and other investments.

Current investments
At least 7 in 10 affluent in Greater China invest in equities, with Hong Kong leading at 87 per cent, mainland China at 71 per cent and Taiwan at 70 per cent. One third (34%) of liquid assets held by affluent Hong Kongers are invested in equities, the highest in the region, followed by 29 per cent by affluent Mainlanders and 27 per cent by affluent Taiwanese.

Yet, affluent individuals in Taiwan and the Mainland are Greater China's biggest equity investors spending an average of US$547,739 and US$371,885 respectively buying and selling stocks over the last 12 months. Hong Kong came in third at US$220,795.

The survey also shows that affluent Mainlanders have one of the most diversified investments portfolios in the region, with a tenth of liquid assets invested in unit trusts and over half of the respondents (55%) saying they own unit trusts. Affluent Mainlanders are the region's biggest unit trust investors, spending over US$30,141 in unit trusts in the past 12 months.

Future investments
Affluent Asians continue to look to stocks for future growth, with India leading the pack (44 per cent), followed by Hong Kong (42%) and mainland China (18%). The affluent in Greater China, led by 20 per cent in Hong Kong, 16 per cent in mainland China and 12 per cent in Taiwan, plan to diversify into other investments, including the renminbi (RMB). Currently, close to a quarter (23%) of affluent individuals in Hong Kong holds RMB investments.

A wave of affluent investors taking up new products is expected from Greater China: 32 per cent in Hong Kong, 21 per cent in mainland China and 12 per cent from Taiwan. Over a tenth in Hong Kong (13%) and mainland China (14%) plan to invest in bonds for the first time.

Fourteen per cent of affluent Mainlanders and 10 per cent of affluent Taiwanese plan to do overseas banking, particulary investments in securities and unit trusts

Rosdi added: "Our survey shows that in general, affluent Asians remain underinvested in the full range of assets with ana over-concentration of investments in stocks compared to professionally managed mutual funds. This may have to do with restrictions on the type of product and market access in individual markets. However, Asia's new affluent are showing increased maturity as investors as they have become wary about rushing into unfamiliar investments and are fast to change investment strategies to react to market changes. They are active self-investors who plan to explore new wealth opportunities, such as the RMB, emerging markets and other overseas investments. Increased involvement in their investments has helped mitigate the impact of the European crisis on affluent Asians' wealth growth."

HSBC Affluent Asian Risk Index
The survey also calculated a risk index2 to measure mentality and behaviour towards security and growth using a number of attributes. In a scale of 0-200 where 0 represents security and 200 for growth, markets tended to hover near the mean of 100 with Asia's new affluent showing a balance attitude towards risk compared to six months ago: Indonesia (100), India (100) and mainland china (99). The more mature markets of Taiwan (89), Malaysia (89), Singapore (82) and Hong Kong (82) show a shift to a security-oriented investment strategy. In Hong Kong and Singapore, the scores were driven by a cautious approach towards investing ain products they are uncertain of or unfamiliar with.

Six in 10 affluent in Mainland (66%), India (64%) and Hong Kong (62%) have a moderate appetite for risk. More affluent individuals in Singapore (47% vs 18%) and Taiwan (36% vs 18%) increased their appetite for capital protection compared to six months ago. Affluent investors from the emerging markets of Indonesia (25%) and Malaysia (23%) show a higher prospensity for risk compared to the rest of the region.
Footnotes: 2. The HSBC Affluent Asian investment risk index measures propensity towards growth or security using 5 measures or attributes for each. The scores are caluclated into an index from 0-200 (100 is the mean), where a higher score represents a stronger propensity towards growth and a lower score, a stronger propensity towards security.

      HSBC AWARDS FATHER'S DAY PROMOTION WINNER
Tuesday, 13th July 2010

HSBC Father's Day winner

HSBC Brunei recently ran a promotion in observance of Father's Day, a special occasion that both honours and celebrates fatherhood and paternal bonds.

A delighted Tracy Huang Shek Yin was named as the grand prize winner of the Father's Day Promotion which was held from 18 to 20 June 2010.

Rosdi Amin, Deputy CEO and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management congratulated Ms Tracy Huang as she collected her prize at the banking hall of the main HSBC branch in Bandar Seri Begawan.

During the three day promotion, HSBC cardholders swiping their cards at a variety of dining establishments and a sporting goods merchant received up to a 35% discount on their purchases.

In addition, customers also received entries into the grand lucky draw for a chance to win an exclusive 3 days/2 nights travel package for four persons to Kuala Lumpur including accommodation.

In its continuous efforts to provide customers with the best service and appropriate products suited to their needs, HSBC Brunei has recently launched its iPhone Application and is the first bank in Brunei to do so. Customers can now keep informed of HSBC Brunei and its latest promotions or the move - be it on the road, between meetings and as well as when they are abroad. The HSBC Brunei iPhone app can be downloaded for free through the iTunes app store by simply searching "HSBC Brunei".

Alternatively, customers may visit www.hsbc.com.bn for more information on the iPhone app or the latest promotion offerings.

      HSBC REWARDS COMPANIES FOR ONLINE TRANSACTIONS
Friday, 9th July 2010

Today, HSBC rewarded two companies for conducting transactions online during the three month long Business Internet Banking/HSBCnet Campaign. Between 1 May to 31 July 2010, customers performing telegraphic transactions via HSBCnet or Business Internet Banking will save up to 50% on the cable fee while also accumulating chances towards winning the grand lucky draw prize for each telegraphic transfer made.

Freme Travel Services Sdn Bhd and Rising Phoenix Ltd were two lucky winners for the 2nd month in June - for successfully conducting online telegraphic transfers through HSBC's Business internet Banking/HSBCnet.

Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking, HSBC Brunei congratulated the representatives from both companies and presented the Netbooks to the winners, which took place at the bank's main branch in Bandar Seri Begawan.

"The response to the campaign has been highly encouraging. Not only are our customers able to take advantage of the savings made from online transactions but they are also doing their bit in saving the environment by choosing to do their banking online." said Irene.

The HSBC Business Internet Banking/HSBCnet campaign will end on 31 July 2010 where two more netbooks will be given out for the month of July. The highlight of this campaign will be the Grand draw where the winning company will enjoy a retreat package for 10 people at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

To find out more about this campaign or HSBC's Commercial banking services, visit www.hsbc.com.bn/commercial.

      HSBC HOLDS TALK ON INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES
Tuesday, 06th July 2010

HSBC HOLDS TALK ON INVESTMENT OPPORTUNITIES

HSBC has always been at the forefront of the investment market and its qualified wealth management team is readily available to help its customers choose the best investment opportunities.

To keep customers abreast of upcoming investment opportunities as well as updates on market conditions, HSBC recently organised a seminar exclusively for its valued customers.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Personal Finance Services in his welcoming remarks gave thanks to all that were present at the seminar. "As part of HSBC's information-sharing initiative, the main objective of this seminar was to update our customers on the market conditions as well as introducing the concept of Multi-Asset allocation" according to Rosdi Amin.

The seminar was conducted by Joyce Wong, Associate Director, Retail Business Development of HSBC Global Asset Management (Singapore) at the Conference Room of Empire Hotel & Country Club.

Ms Wong highlighted that that it is more important to stay invested, than to be timing the market and to have your investments diversified across not just the traditional asset classes (i.e. equities, bonds and cash) but also into alternative assets such as property and commodities.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and the extensive range of investment products on offer, visit www.hsbc.com.bn or call us on 2 252 252 to arrange an appointment for a free financial health check.

      TURTLE GETS HSBC'S GENTLE TOUCH
Tuesday, 06th July 2010

TURTLE GETS HSBC'S GENTLE TOUCH

As part of HSBC World Environment Day initiative to promote Bio diversity conservation, 39 HSBC staff volunteers to clean the sea turtle enclosure at the Sea Turtle Management and Conservation Center at Serasa, Muara recently.

They were greeted by Hj Aji Hj Sapar, acting Head of the Division and Hariel Hj Simpol, Officer in charge of the center.

Prior to the volunteer work, Hariel Hj Simpol gave briefing on the threat that sea turtles are facing and the conservation work by the center.

"The aim of our conservation work is to increase the local turtle population. We start by gathering turtle eggs and then nurture them into hatchling. Out of 1,000 hatchlings, only one will survive to maturity. So to increase the rate of survival, our hatchlings will only be released into the ocean after a year of incubation." said Hariel Hj Sampol.

"The main threat to the local turtle population locally and in the ASEAN region is the consumption of their eggs. We would like to remind the public that the sales and consumption of turtle eggs is illegal in Brunei."

"Its interesting to learn that temperature plays a part in determining the hatchling gender. With global warming, the number of female hatchling has out numbered male. This will further exacerbate the threat on the species survival" said Colin Lai a HSBC volunteer.

After the briefing, it was all hands on deck on cleaning the turtle enclosure.

"I am looking forward to more volunteering opportunity when the new Sea Turtle Conservation Center open in Meragang next year." said Tang Lee Ping the newest member of HSBC Climate Champion.

       HSBC INTRODUCES EXTENDED BANKING HOURS
Thursday, 01st July 2010

HSBC Brunei is pleased to announce that it is extending its banking hours on general customer services at its Serusop branch in order to provide added convenience as well better serve customers.

The extended banking hours will come to effect on Thursday, 01 July 2010 where the Serusop Branch will operate from 9.00am to 9.00pm. This branch will also provide banking services during Saturdays from 9.00am to 4.00pm and from 11.00am to 4.00pm during Public holidays.

"HSBC is fully aware that most of our customers face difficulties in attending to their banking needs during traditional banking hours due to work or family commitments and by extending our hours, we are providing this additional service to be able to cater to them," said Rosdi Amin Yaakub, HSBC Brunei's Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management.

"The Serusop branch was specifically chosen for its convenient location and exceptional number of our customers, thereby putting a branch with longer hours conveniently within the reach of most HSBC customers." He continued.

Customers who require basic banking transactions can also use the bank's various self-service terminals such as ATMs, cash and cheque deposit machines or our industry leading personal internet banking at www.hsbc.com.bn

HSBC has 70 self-service terminals comprising of 39 ATMs, 19 Cash Deposit Machines and 12 Cheque Deposit Machines nationwide. These self-service terminals are available 24 hours, 7 days a week at strategic locations nationwide. For any queries regarding the extended banking hours, please contact HSBC at 2 252 252.


HSBC NEWS JUNE 2010

HSBC YEA REGIONAL COMPETITION CULMINATES!

Wednesday, 30th June 2010

Yesterday saw the culmination of over nine months of challenges and sheer hard work come to a close as six teams representing Bangladesh, Brunei, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Philippines and Thailand respectively battle for the coveted title of the 'Best of the Best' award in the HSBC Young Entrepreneur Awards (YEA) Regional Finals held in Kuala Lumpur.

For the first time ever since its inception ten years ago the YEA Regional Finals competition and tour was held outside of Hong Kong, with Malaysia being chosen to host the 2009-2010 YEA Regional Finals. Malaysia was chosen as this year's host as it was the first country within Asia Pacific (outside of Hong Kong) to implement the YEA competition locally.

Team 'Fishermen' from Hong Kong won over the panel of high profile judges with their business plan presentation which centered around a transgenic fish that emits light when exposed to toxins and harmful agents. Their business plan aims at making the entire testing process more economical and efficient for products such as food pharmaceuticals, cosmetics and plastics.

Kunal Parwani teared up with joy as he and his team mate Eric Chen Zixiang, both from the University of Hong Kong received their prize of a business development fund of HK $100,000 and an HSBC trophy from Mukhtar Hussain, Deputy Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad and Global CEO, HSBC Amanah.

Addressing the audience, Kunal said, "We have been working on this (project) for the past two years, without the platform that the HSBC YEA has provided, this wouldn't be successful".

The Diamond Award (2nd place) went to Bangladesh, Team 'Prochar' with their product 'Biochar' which is an anti-leaching, eco-friendly, carbon-negative solution to the problem of degrading soil quality and a means of achieving good yields with minimum use of fertilisers. Sababa Islam, Sazzadul Rahman and Siffat Sarwar from the Institute of Business Administration, University of Dhaka brought home the prize of a business development fund of HK$ 20,000 and HSBC Trophy.

The third place Jade award with a business development fund of HK$ 10,000 was won by the Philippines, Team Delta Eco represented by Wyle Emille Datu and Maria Isobelle Lacsamana with their project titled 'Eco Plast'.

Willie Tham, Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Thailand, Peter Norton, Corporate Risk Officer, HSBC Bank Malaysia Berhad, YBhg Datuk David Chua, Managing Director, DC & A Group Sdn Bhd, Charles Ireland, Managing Director of Guiness Anchor Berhad and Rita Sim, Executive Director, Sin Chew Media Corporation Berhad made up the panel of judges during the event.

Mukhtar Hussain in his speech said: "Congratulations to all the finalists who made it this far! To the other teams, you are all winners in your own right!"

Team KLH Inc from Brunei, Team Trio from Malaysia and Team Thamfit from Thailand all received Gold Lions as souvenirs.

The Gold, Silver and Bronze teams from each of the six countries are currently on a one week long entrepreneurial tour which will see them attending various workshops at Universiti Tunku Abdul Rahman and educational visits to KL landmarks such as the Petronas Twin Towers and the F1 Sepang Circuit.

      STUDENTS REPRESENTS BRUNEI FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS IN KL
Sunday, 27th June 2010

STUDENTS REPRESENTS BRUNEI FOR YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS IN KL
Sunday, 27June - Liza Kamaruddin, Group Communications, and a group of eight students from Maktab Duli and PTE Meragang left for Kuala Lumpur yesterday for the HSBC Young Entrepreneurs Award. Also included in the delegation was Borneo Bulletin's reporter, Syafiq Affendy.

Six regional countries - Bangladesh, Thailand, Philippines, Hong Kong, Malaysia and Brunei - will participate in the finals held in Kuala Lumpur.

The Gold winners will walk away with a cash prize of HK$100,000.

Thailand had the honour of winning the award two years ago and last year, the award went to the Philippines.

Two of the students, Ak Mohd Fadhil bin Pg Hj Ali and Abd Malik bin Hj Omar, expressed their joy for being chosen in the competition while Michell Yap Hui Ying said that she was so excited that she could not sleep.

Nurul Azimah bte Ishan Khalil, another student, shared the same sentiment with her other counterparts.

      INVEST ONLINE FOR LESS WITH HSBC
Tuesday, 22st June 2010

Existing investors of HSBC can now invest for less online at hsbc.com.bn. The Unit Trusts Monthly Investment Plan (UT MIP) promotion exclusive to Personal Internet Banking (PIB) Customers is the latest campaign from the world's local bank in its efforts to encourage customers to go 'green' and save.

Existing investors can enjoy 25% off the monthly initial sales charge when they take up a UT MIP online from now until 31st August 2010. This promotion was launched with the aim to encourage customers to put aside funds on a monthly basis to contribute towards their overall savings. In addition, not only will customers be saving but they will also be helping towards making the environment greener.

HSBC Brunei is committed to finding ways to reduce its impact on the environment through the reduction in paper usage. Customers investing online will mean a paperless transaction as everything will be done electronically. Not only will there be a significant reduction of paper but also cost savings for the customers.

In addition, existing investors that invest in a Unit Trust online before 30 June 2010, will receive 50% off the initial sales charge of the lump sum investment and receive triple chances to win the weekly lucky draw prize of BND500 shopping vouchers and grand draw prize of BND 6,000 cash in HSBC's 'The Sale' promotion.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and the extensive range of investment products on offer, visit www.hsbc.com.bn or call us on 2 252 252 to arrange an appointment for a free financial health check.

      CYCLE FOR SMARTER ORGANIZED BY HSBC BRUNEI AND SMARTER
Monday, 21st June 2010

CYCLE for SMARTER Organized By HSBC Brunei and SMARTER

Monday, 21June - In a bid to raise money for charity, 400 enthusiastic cyclists congregated in the heart of Kuala Belait yesterday morning to take on a 108-kilometre challenge that started from HSBC (Kuala Belait) and ended at the Autism Spectrum Disorder Centre in Sengkurong.

The annual SMARTER Cycling Challenge was the third of such sporting events organised by HSBC to raise funds for the association, drawing the participation of bank personnel as well as the general public.

The challenge - which was flagged off at 7am by Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Yahya bin Dato Paduka Haji Bakar - also saw the participation of SMARTER President Malai Haji Abdullah bin Malai Haji Othman and HSBC Chief Executive Officer Tareq Muhmood.

After the race, the minister, who has a passion for cycling, said the event had upped SMARTER's profile, while at the same time raised awareness on the need for public donations to keep the association afloat.

He later praised HSBC for its efforts and applauded participants for their involvement in the event.

The money raised in the SMARTER Cycling Challenge will help lighten SMARTER's financial burden, which amounts to $21,000 monthly.

Malai Hj Abdullah said, "The event has been very successful. I have to salute the participants, especially the cycling community. They have been very supportive and their numbers exceeded my expectation. It was indeed heart-warming to see a long queue of cyclists."

HSBC CEO Tareq Muhmood also conveyed his appreciation to all cyclists who played a role in ensuring the event was a success.

The challenge was split into two categories - Category A: 108-km challenge for adult cyclists, and, Category B: an eight-km community challenge which was open to all cyclists, starting off at HSBC Jerudong.

There was also an eight-km community challenge for children below six years, which took the young participants from HSBC Jerudong to the SMARTER Centre in Sengkurong.

      HSBC BRUNEI LAUNCHES NEW STRUCTURED NOTE!
Friday, 18th June 2010

HSBC Brunei continues to provide their customers with attractive investment opportunities with its latest offering of the NZD 3Years Fixed Coupon 100% Principal Protected Notes linked to USD/CNY structured note. The promotional minimum subscription amount is NZD 5,000 and it will be offered from 17 June to 7 July 2010.

This Note is denominated in New Zealand Dollars and has a 3-year tenor. It provides customers with the opportunity to benefit from the appreciation of the Chinese Yuan against the US Dollar. Coupons are payable semi-annually and the investor's principal is fully protected if the Note is held to maturity, regardless of the performance of the underlying.

"Our analysts believe that the revaluation trend will not be derailed, even though the Chinese Yuan appreciation may be delayed to later this year. This is because China is paving the way for full convertibility of its currency over the next few years and so a gradual appreciation of the Yuan can be expected," said Jenny Lau, the Manager of Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei.

For more information, interested investors are advised to visit any of our HSBC branches located nationwide or log on to www.hsbc.com.bn.

      HSBC GLOBAL MARKETS SHARES FOREX INTELLIGENCE
Friday, 18th June 2010

HSBC Brunei Global Markets Team recently hosted several sessions of Foreign Exchange and Global Policy Rates 2010 Outlook workshops for their Business banking and Premier customers in Bandar and Kuala Belait this week.

Treasurer, Global Markets HSBC Brunei, Salyahrinah Yahya, Global Markets' Senior Trader, On Swee Long and HSBC Corporate Banking and Premier Relationship Managers were also present at the event.

Salyahrinah, in her welcoming speech, said, 'HSBC Brunei has been conducting such seminars annually for the past four years as we recognise the imperatives of keeping our customers well-informed and abreast with the latest and up-to-date outlook on the existing foreign exchange and money market environment. As our customers are increasingly becoming more sophisticated and overwhelmed by information overload, these initiatives reflect our commitment to our customers by leveraging our global resources and putting forward the best of our group Global Research with contents tailor-made to suit our customers who attend with a variety of motivation and expectations.'

Senior trader of Global Markets team, Swee Long added that these value-added informative events allow the bank to fulfill its objective of continuously improving and tightening a closer long-term working relationship with its customers as well as to better understand and fulfill their banking needs. He was very encouraged by the participation and positive feedback from the customers.

During the workshops, Diana Han, foreign exchange dealer of the Global Markets team shared with the audience the significant themes driving the ever changing FX market, followed by an interesting update on exchange rate trends and outlooks for six of the major G10 currencies in 2010 and forward. On a side note, she also brought some exciting facts and information on China, its policy framework as well as its currency, the Chinese Yuan. At the end of the sessions, she wrapped up with forecasts for foreign exchange rates and global policy rates as well as a Q & A session.

The guests then had the opportunity to network, meet and consult with Corporate Banking and Premier Relationship Managers as well as the members of the Global Markets team from HSBC Brunei.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its services, visit www.hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC BRUNEI REWARDS MOTHER'S DAY PROMO WINNER!
Thursday, 17th June 2010

HSBC Brunei Rewards Mother's Day Promo Winner!

A beaming Pg Hj Mohd Yassin bin Pg Hj Ismail collected his prize today as the grand lucky draw prize winner of the HSBC Mother's Day Promotion which ran from 7 to 9 May 2010.

The prize presentation took place at the banking hall of HSBC's main branch in the Capital. Rosdi Amin, Deputy CEO and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management was on hand to congratulate and present the prize to Pg Hj Mohd Yassin.

Rosdi said: "It is our great pleasure to be able to offer our customers such a promotion that centres around a special day that celebrates mothers. Not only do we at HSBC strive to provide customers with the best service they can receive but we also continually make every effort to reward our customers for their ongoing support. It is our sincere hope that Pg Hj Mohd Yassin will be able to enjoy his prize with his family."

The Mother's Day promotion offered HSBC cardholders the opportunity to enjoy up to 35% discounts at selected merchants and receive triple the amount of reward points for each dollar spent.

Additionally, customers swiping their cards at the selected merchants earned entries to win a luxurious weekend package for 4 persons at The Empire Hotel & Country Club Which includes a one night stay at the Garden Villa, chauffeur driven service, spa treatments for four, complimentary a la carte breakfast, afternoon tea and mock tails and an exclusive dinner meal which will be served at the Garden Villa. They can also take advantage of other benefits offered in the Villa Package.

HSBC is offering a promotion for the upcoming Father's Day which falls on the third Sunday of June annually. From 18 to 20 June, customers swiping their cards at a variety of selected merchants will enjoy amazing discounts of up to 35%. Customers will also receive entries to the grand lucky draw where the winner will receive a 3 days/2 nights travel package for four persons to Kuala Lumpur which includes accommodation.

For more information on HSBC Brunei and its latest promotions, please visit www.hsbc.com.bn.

      CEO TAREQ MUHMOOD GIVES STUDENTS A TASTE OF THE BANKING ENVIRONMENT
Wednesday, 16th June 2010

CEO Tareq Muhmood Gives Students A Taste Of The Banking Environment

Today HSBC Brunei hosted an educational visit for a group of year 7 students from Maktab Sains Paduka Seri Begawan Sultan, Sekolah Menengah PAP Hjh Masna, Sekolah Menengah Sultan Hassan and Chung Hwa School and Educational officers from the Education Unit.

On hand to greet the students was the Manager Human Resources of HSBC Brunei, Teo Seh Chien and Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Brunei, Tareq Muhmood CEO Tareq Muhmood presented a short briefing about HSBC Brunei and an overview of his work experience, covering the good and the tough times.

Tareq was also able to share with the students his vast knowledge and experiences in the financial sector. He imparted valuable advice on the important traits of being a leader, encouraging the students to learn how to evaluate ideas and express opinions and ideas with no fear of criticism, which helps build a more solid sense of self-confidence and self-esteem.

The educational visit which was organised by the Education Unit was held in full support of the students' participation in the Challenge Programme which has the said students creating, promoting as well as selling products to which the profits will be given to charitable organisations.

Part of HSBC's Corporate Sustainability's initiatives include focusing on education as well as investing in the communities that it operates in. HSBC also encourages its employees to get involved in their local communities in a bid to further motivate and engage our people.

Visit www.hsbc.com.bn to find out more about HSBC and its Corporate Sustainability programme.

      HSBC HIGHLIGHTS CYCLE FOR SMARTER ON RAMPAI PAGI!
Wednesday, 16th June 2010

Yesterday morning, HSBC and SMARTER Brunei were invited on RTB's Rampai Pagi programme to share with local television viewers more information about the upcoming Cycle for SMARTER event which will be held this coming Sunday.

This is the third time that HSBC has organised such a long distance cycling event. The event will see more than 300 cyclists embarking on a 100km ride which will start from HSBC's branch in Kuala Belait at 7 a.m. Thereafter, they will be joined by another 100 cyclists including children on the 8km ride to the Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Center Jerudong.

"We are supporting SMARTER as part of HSBC's strong commitment to delivering educational programmes for disadvantaged children. We have been a long time supporter of SMARTER and we have seen how far it has grown over the years. It initially started off as a family support group and now it has developed as a center with international recognition." said Pg. Samayuda Pg Masshor, speaking on behalf of HSBC.

"We hope through our joint efforts that the public will gain a better understanding of Autism and that the funding we collect, however little, will help autistic children to be independent and perhaps become valuable contributors to Bruneian society" He further added "Whilst we have plans to be self sustainable, SMARTER still requires continuous support from corporations and the general public to remain operational., we need funding to continue our short term operations" Said Hj Malai Abdullah bin Hj Malai Hj Othman, President of SMARTER.

"A lot of our autistic children have grown up - now facing their teenage years and moving into adulthood. They will have to live with autism for the rest of their lives. As a parent and member of SMARTER, we are working hard to teach them to be independent. We are also asking the public to be more understanding of autistic individuals thus creating an autism 'inclusive' environment and society." He added.

HSBC and SMARTER would also like to remind motorists to be extra careful and vigilant on the road on Sunday, 20 June 2010 during the cycling event. Cyclists will start from HSBC Kuala Belait at 7 a.m. The journey will take approximately 6 hours.

HSBC's Corporate Sustainability Strategy is an integral part of HSBC's long term strategy to ensure its continual success. All HSBC staff are encouraged to get involved in local charities and non-profit organisations as part of their development and fulfillment of their corporate social responsibilities. Our staff has become more proud of working for HSBC and as a result, this improves productivity which in turn translates to business success.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its Sustainability initiatives, visit www.hsbc.com.bn/1/2/about-hsbc/corporate-sustainability

      HSBC BRUNEI FIRST TO LAUNCH IPHONE APP
Tuesday, 15th June 2010

Bank claims a first with business service for iPhone and iPod touch owners HSBC has become the first financial institution to offer business banking on the Apple iPhone and iPod touch handsets.

The HSBC Business Internet Banking service has been optimised for the Apple devices, and offers quick and easy access to secure, real-time banking information 24 hours a day, seven days a week, according to the company.

Services range from checking details of accounts held abroad, making payments of up to GBP100,000 per day, accessing credit and debit account information, and requesting an overdraft.

"Currently 70 per cent of our business customers choose to transact over the internet," said Huw Morgan, head of business banking at HSBC. "These range from startups to large corporates, but the fundamentals are the same. Our customers want safe, instant access to their business accounts on platforms that suit them, at a time that is convenient."

Morgan claimed that, combined with its BlackBerry service launched in October, HSBC offers an impressive portfolio.

"By providing our award-winning Business Internet Banking service for iPhone, iPod touch and BlackBerry devices, we are providing the most comprehensive business internet banking service in the UK and Europe," he said.

"Through the added functionality, we are able to serve an increasing number of businesses, helping them keep track of their banking requirements with increased flexibility. And we intend to support more devices in the future."

MasterCard Inc. on Thursday launched an application for the iPad and iPhone that lets users transfer money from person to person.

The MoneySend service can be downloaded for free at the iPhone App Store.

Users can register for the application by creating a virtual prepaid account through Bancorp Bank. The bank charges fees for certain services. For example, it costs from 29 cents to $2.95 to send money, depending on the amount sent.

MasterCard said it is working to enlist other banks and credit unions to join the program.

MasterCard shares rose $1.18 to $202.21 in afternoon trading.

      WU CHUN DOES HIS BIT FOR HSBC CYCLE FOR SMARTER
Monday, 14th June 2010

Wu Chun, a Brunei-born artist who made it big in the international scene is lending a helping hand in Cycle for SMARTER.

Several Scott branded cycling accessories autographed by Wu Chun are up for auction in Ebay.com now. In the short time that the item was listed, it has already attracted a number of fans and bids.

Included as one of the auction items is an autographed 1999 20th SEA Game Basketball.

"The official 20th SEA game basketball is very personal to me. I have many fond memories of the 20th SEA games. It was the first major international sporting event held in Brunei and I was a proud member of Brunei National Basketball Team. I still vividly remember the scene and the feeling when thousands of Bruneians cheered for us!" Said Wu Chun, in a statement on Cycle for SMARTER Website.

Fans of Wu Chun can search for the auction item on EBay by typing "SMARTER Charity".

In addition to the auction, Fitness Zone, a fitness club owned by Wu Chun, has also sponsored several lucky draw items and sign-up goodies for all cyclists in order to support the Cycle for SMARTER cause."

"We will have close to 400 cyclists on 20th of June. It is unfortunate that due to work commitments, Wu Chun will not be cycling with us. However, we really appreciate his sponsorship through fitness zone and his initiative to help raise funds for Brunei autistic children through the auction" said Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Brunei.

"We would also like to remind motorists to be extra careful and vigilant on the road on Sunday, 20 June 2010 as more than 300 cyclists will cycle from HSBC Kuala Belait to ASD Center in Sengkurong. Cyclists will start from HSBC Kuala belait at 7 a.m. The journey will take approximately 6 hours."

HSBC Brunei is highly committed to supporting charity organisations and welfare bodies. Being responsive to the needs of the community is one of the core values of the bank's Corporate Sustainability programme.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its Corporate Sustainability programme, log on to www.hsbc.com.bn

      GREEN CAMPAIGN WITH HSBC PRIUS CARS
Thursday, 10th June 2010

Green Campaign With HSBC Prius Cars

HSBC Prius cars have been given a facelift. Nine of these eye-catching Priuses will be driven around town promoting energy efficiency, one of the important topics that will be discussed at the National Environment Conference (NEC) 2010, on 1 July at the Empire Hotel.

Stuart Kemp, Executive Director of Asia Inc Forum, said, "We are partnering with HSBC in using their Toyota Prius, a car designed for its fuel efficiency and environmental commitment, as we believe this is the perfect vehicle to promote the message of this year's National Environment Conference."

As part of HSBC's commitment in generating awareness on environment conservation, they have recently supported the production of DVDs of the film entitled "Brunei Darussalam - Custodian of the Rainforest" for the British High Commission's Celebration to mark the 84th Birthday of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

"We would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate the HSBC for the commitment to the environment and their support of this green awareness initiative. The application of the National Environment Conference decals is a great example of their team's commitment to promote awareness of the urgency to act on the environment now." said Kemp.

The 2010 National Environment Conference is convened by Asia Inc Forum in collaboration with TOTAL, HSBC, Alcoa, ButraHeidelberg Cement and St Engineering and supported by ITOUCHU Corporation, Borneo Bulletin and Media Permata.

      HSBC UK RUNNER UP IN PRESTIGIOUS FINANCIAL TIMES SUSTAINABLE BANKING AWARDS
Thursday, 10th June 2010

Recently HSBC in the UK landed the runner up prize in the Sustainable Bank of the Year category in recognition of its leadership in merging social, environmental and business objectives.

Now in its fifth year, the awards recognise banks and other financial institutions that have shown leadership and innovation in integrating social, environmental and corporate governance considerations into their operations. The 2010 awards drew 156 entries from 110 institutions in over 40 countries.

HSBC UK was just beaten in the final by Cooperative Financial Services, a UK mutual society which has been leveraging its ethical stance in the UK for many years. HSBC's entry was based on information and activity from round the Group, and the award is the result of a great deal of hard work around the bank and a great acknowledgement of the way in which the bank continues to put sustainability at the heart of the way we do business.

Accepting the award on behalf of HSBC, John Laidlow, Senior Manager, Group Corporate Sustainability commented, "HSBC is thrilled to have come second in these awards. Thank you to colleagues, customers and partners who have contributed towards our sustainability ambitions this year."

The awards were presented at a gala dinner in London attended by more than 250 senior bankers and decision-makers in the area of sustainability.

For more information about HSBC and its Corporate Sustainability programme, log on to www.hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC REWARDS COMPANIES FOR e-TRANSACTIONS
Tuesday, 08th June 2010

Boustead Sdn Bhd and Zuvaries Media Company were the first two lucky winners of the HSBC Commercial Banking e-Transactions Campaign being held from 01 May 2010 until 31 July 2010. During the campaign period, all customers who conduct telegraphic transactions via HSBCnet or Business Internet Banking can save up to 50% on the cable fee and will be entitled to the monthly lucky draw.

The award presentation took place at HSBC's main branch in the Capital. Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking HSBC Brunei presented the awards of two Netbooks to representatives from each winning company.

"Companies are always looking for ways to save time and costs. For HSBC's business customers, they can take full advantage of our established global network and utilise our award winning Internet Banking facilities in conducting cross-border transactions safely and efficiently" said Irene.

The highlight of this Campaign will be the Grand draw - the winning company will receive a company retreat package for 10 people at The Empire Hotel & Country Club.

To find out more about HSBC and its Commercial banking services, visit www.hsbc.com.bn/commercial

      HSBC CELEBRATE WORLD ENVIRONMENT DAY WITH SAFARI TRIP
Saturday, 05th June 2010

The World Environment Day which is celebrated on 5 June annually is about inspiring individuals to take actions at a local level to benefit the environment. The focus of this year's World Environment Day is biodiversity.

The HSBC Group has branded this year's World Environment Day campaign as "Banking on survival". It aims to raise awareness of the impact that human activities have on different species' survival. With this in mind, HSBC has organised several activities that aims to educate its staff on the importance of biodiversity conservation.

One such activity involves staff participating in quizzes to test their knowledge on endangered species. Staff members who are able answer the quiz correctly stand a chance to volunteer alongside the Earthwatch Institute on a scientific conservation project at an overseas location.

Locally, more than 260 HSBC Brunei staff participated in a Night Safari to observe and learn more about the proboscis monkeys. Most Bruneians are unaware that the proboscis monkey is listed as an endangered species in the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) red list. HSBC staff also witnessed first hand the recent devastation caused to the proboscis monkey habitat in Bengkurong.

Over the past 30 years, Climate change has been implicated in species- level extinction. One branch of HSBC's Corporate Sustainability initiatives is its Climate Partnership programme which supports some of the world's leading charities to tackle the causes and impacts of climate change. All HSBC offices worldwide are committed to combat the urgent threat of climate change by inspiring action by individuals, businesses and governments worldwide.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its Sustainability initiatives, visit www.hsbc.com.bn/1/2/about-hsbc/corporate-sustainability

      GOLFERS TEE OFF FOR HSBC CHARITY GOLF @ THE EMPIRE
Friday, 04th June 2010

The HSBC Charity Golf Tournament @ The Empire is back for the second year. More than 350 golfers have registered to participate in the Charity Golf Tournament which will tee off today. The annual tournament is organised by HSBC Brunei, with The Empire Golf and Country Club as the event partner and supported by Jati Transport, Interhouse Company and Brunei Press as the official media partner.

During the tournament, golfers stand a chance to win an array of exciting hole-in-one prizes ranging from a luxurious C180 CGI Mercedes Benz, an exclusive Canon package, BND50,000 cash prize and a special Gold Coast, Australia Travel package for two adults and two children. In addition, there will be novelty prizes for nearest to pin and nearest to line over the three day event, as well as attractive lucky draw prizes which were generously donated by various companies and organizations.

Proceeds from the HSBC Charity Golf Tournament will be channelled to a number of local charities and welfare bodies providing help and support for individuals with special needs.

Additionally the two best scoring HSBC Premier Customers will be invited to compete in the HSBC Regional Finals held in Hong Kong this October for the chance to play in the WGC-HSBC Champions Pro-Am in Shanghai which will be held in November this year.

The main highlight of this event will be the chance to win a trip for two to watch an exclusive VIP tailored HSBC Champions Tournament in Sheshan Golf Club, Shanghai which also includes both accommodation and air tickets for two to watch some of the best golfers in the world in action.

The prize presentation will be held on Sunday afternoon at 1.30pm, 6 June 2010, at the Members' Grill, The Empire Golf and Country Club.

HSBC Brunei is highly committed to supporting charity organizations and welfare bodies. Being responsive to the needs of the community is one of the core values of the bank's Corporate Sustainability programme.

On 20 June 2010, HSBC Brunei will be holding its annual cycling challenge, which will see over 300 participants cycling to raise funds for SMARTER Brunei.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its Corporate Sustainability programme, log on to www.hsbc.com.bn


HSBC NEWS MAY 2010

HSBC'S FUN DAY OUT WITH SPECIAL KACA KIDS

Saturday, 29th May 2010
HSBC's Fun Day Out With Special KACA Kids Recently, HSBC held a Fun Day out at the beach especially for children from KACA. The event, held at Pantai Seri Kenangan in Tutong was attended by more than 30 children, their parents and HSBC Staff from both the Tutong and Muara branches. The main emphasis of the day was to provide a safe and fun filled day for the special needs children. The event started with a welcome speech by Jo Ann Embran, Branch Manager Tutong, HSBC Brunei, who expressed her delight at having the opportunity to host the event and being able to give back to the community.

Light refreshments were offered before proceeding with the games and activities such as playing musical chairs, football as well as arts and handicrafts. The staff also conducted energisers that had the children dance along.

Little Mohd Aizzam Hakim Bin Abd Wahab, was awarded as the best dancer for his enthusiast and energetic dance moves.

"We were overwhelmed, thankful and grateful to have the chance to spend time with these special individuals. We hope that we will have the opportunity to participate in community events such as this in the near future" said Hafizah Busrah, Assistant Manager Sales & Service, HSBC Tutong Branch.

The fun day was wrapped up with the prize and certificate presentation which were handed out by Siti Rozainah Dato Hj MohdYunos, Manager Customer Experience and Sales Quality, HSBC Brunei. The KACA children were also given goodie bags and balloons to bring home as a souvenir for the day.

HSBC Brunei continually encourages its staff to volunteer and demonstrate the bank's core values of being responsive to the needs of the community. The bank's Corporate Sustainability programme is highly committed to support children with special needs by working closely with non-profit organisations.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its Corporate Sustainability programme, log on to www.hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC REWARDS LUCKY CUSTOMER IN THE SALE!
Friday, 28th May 2010

HSBC Rewards Lucky Customer in The Sale

10 fortunate HSBC customers were rewarded today for successfully applying for selected products during HSBC's 'The Sale' Campaign. The event took place at the bank's main branch in the capital. On hand to present the prizes was Dk Hamidah Pg Hj Othman, Senior Personal and Financial Services Sales & Support Manager, HSBC Brunei.

Md Yassin Bini, Ahmadi Nayan, Pg DP Osman Pg Patra, A Ahmad Faisaldin Hj Awg Tuah, Fadeyibi Adeniran Ibukun, Siti Beby Addy Astutey Md Ko, Yu Chui Tan, Yusof Amban, Hong Chang Siong, Flojgaard Martin were the lucky winners who won a BND500 shopping voucher each.

With 10 prizes given away to the winners of Week One and Week Two, there is only five more weeks left for HSBC customers to stand a chance of grabbing the remaining thirty prizes. To stand a chance in winning any of the exciting prizes, customers simply have to apply for any of the selected products successfully. Chances of winning are tripled if customers apply selected products online at www.hsbc.com.bn.

Customers will also be entered into the Grand Lucky Draw where 5 winners will each be bringing home BND6,000 to cover the cost of their basic necessities such as utility bills, groceries and school fees.

HSBC is the only bank in Brunei that has launched a campaign of this kind - offering discounts on various products under the 'Sale' concept. The Sale campaign is in its third year since its inception in 2008 and offers customers with a 'one stop shop' solution for those seeking financial assistance, be it wealth accumulation or wealth management. Especially for the campaign, HSBC branches in the nation been covered with vibrant wall and window stickers to announce its launch. The Sale was launched in May 2010 and will continue until the end of June. For more information about The Sale from HSBC, visit your nearest HSBC branch or visit www.hsbc.com.bn/thesale.

Es can call Nilawati at 2252325 or email commercialbanking@hsbc.com.bn to RSVP by 03 August 2010.

      HSBC MAKES SAVING EASY AND AFFORDABLE
Thursday, 27th May 2010

With HSBC's latest promotion, saving has never been so easy and affordable. For the very first time ever, HSBC Personal Internet Banking (PIB) customers can now open a Term Deposit Account (TMD) for as little as 1,000 of any foreign currency.

The foreign currencies include the Australian Dollar, Canadian Dollar, Euro, Sterling Pound, Hong Kong Dollar, New Zealand Dollar, Swiss Franc and US Dollar.

Internet savvy customers may open up a foreign currency TMD account online@hsbc for as little as 1,000 for each respective currency of their choice. In addition, customers can also opt to open a Japanese Yen TMD, which requires a minimum JPY 100,000.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management said, "Not only does foreign currency time deposits offer customers with the opportunity to take advantage of favourable interest and exchange rates but by opening up the option to deposit online, it offers our customers much more ease and convenience by not having to wait in a queue."

For more information about how you can register as an HSBC Personal Internet Banking customer, click on to www.hsbc.com.bn The offer is available from now until the 31 July 2010.

      HSBC COMMEMORATES INTERNATIONAL DAY FOR BIODIVERSITY WITH GREEN WAVE
Tuesday, 25th May 2010

In conjunction with the International Day for Biodiversity, which fell on the 22nd of May this year, HSBC Brunei together with the Forestry Department of the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources and K.N. Nursery jointly organised a tree planting activity for Maktab Sains PSBS.

This activity marks Brunei's first participation in the global campaign "Green Wave" where people around the world come together and plant trees simultaneously, forming a figurative wave which moves westwards each hour starting from the Pacific, to Asia, across Europe and Africa, and over the ocean to America.

The main objective of this tree planting event at Maktab Sains PSBS was to raise awareness about the fragility of our ecosystem as well as to educate the youth on the importance of maintaining a viable biodiversity.

"Environmental responsibility has always been an imperative part of the HSBC Group. Since the United Nations has declared the year 2010 the International Year of Biodiversity, we take this opportunity to relay a valuable message and hope that this tree planting activity can heighten the awareness of people in our country and be appreciated by as many people as possible", said Ms Salyahrinah Yahya, Treasurer of Global Markets HSBC Brunei. "It is crucial for people around the world to work together and safeguard our natural wealth and reduce biodiversity loss before it is too late. Biodiversity is the variety of living things on earth which supports all lives. We rely on this diversity of life to live", she added.

Over 40 secondary schools across Brunei as well as members from both public and private sectors pledged their participation in the "Green Wave" campaign following a briefing held by the Forestry Department and HSBC a few weeks earlier at the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources. Participating schools were provided with a tree sapling, topsoil and fertiliser by the Forestry Department and K.N. Nursery. To ensure the tree saplings had the best chance of survival, experts from the Forestry Department also briefed individual schools on correct tree planting techniques.

"We hope our youth will appreciate that while our country may be blessed with lush forests which support a diversity of life for now, these precious resources can deplete in time without proper conservation. Without the forests, many animal species will lose their home, unidentified species will never be identified, and we will lose the biodiversity which supports our life", said Mr Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability of HSBC Brunei.

To add value to the tree planting activity at Maktab Sains PSBS, he also gave a presentation on biological diversity to students from Project V Club and Environmental Club of the school.

All the trees planted in observation to the Green Wave and International Day for Biodiversity will be counted towards "Plant for the Planet Billion Tree Campaign".

For more information about HSBC Brunei and Sustainability initiatives, visit www.hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC BRUNEI DOES ITS BIT FOR ENERGY DAY!
Tuesday, 25th May 2010

Energy Day

Energy conservation and management is part and parcel of HSBC's long standing commitment to the environment. HSBC's current energy management policy and practices is part of its overall corporate sustainability strategy which includes reducing carbon footprint.

In this regard, HSBC is proud to participate in the latest eSaving SOS campaign in support of Brunei's Energy Day. Yesterday, HSBC Brunei increased the thermostat of all air conditioners in its offices by two degrees, while its Branches increased their air conditioning thermostats to 24 degree C.

Mr. Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability of HSBC Brunei said, "With air conditioners and lighting as one of the highest electricity consuming appliances, we switched off all unnecessary lights during the day and made full use of the natural sunlight. The two lifts in the main headquarters also ceased operations between 8am and 5pm."

HSBC's Corporate Sustainability Strategy is an integral part of HSBC long term strategy to ensure its continual success. All HSBC offices worldwide are mandated to adopt good practice in respect to energy consumption, where practicable, strive to improve its energy efficiency.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its Sustainability initiatives, visit http://www.hsbc.com.bn/1/2/about-hsbc/corporate-sustainability

      HSBC STAFF LEARN VALUABLE FIRE FIGHTING TECHNIQUES
Thursday, 20th May 2010

Fire fighting is dangerous work. Not only does it test your strength, endurance and discipline - it also involves a certain amount of skill and relies heavily on the ability to work in a team. This is what HSBC staff learned recently during their fire fighting course.

At HSBC, the safety of its staff and customers are an utmost priority. Hence as part of the bank's continuous effort to ensure that its resident Evacuation Marshalls (EM) carry out their duties effectively, the EMs were sent to undergo a 3 day fire fighting course.

The course is an initiative by Bomba to better equip Marshalls in emergency situations.

"I felt the course was both informative and important. We had to take part in live fire training exercises and an activity where we had to crawl through the 'smoke house' which was completely pitch black - we had to keep calm to be able find our way out!," said Diana Abdullah, an HSBC Evacuation Marshall. To date, over 59 staff marshalls have attended the fire fighting course.

      HSBC BRUNEI REWARDS STELLAR STAFF
Thursday, 19th May 2010

HSBC Brunei yesterday held a staff recognition event to reward its staff for their outstanding performance in Customer Service.

The event, held at the bank's main headquarters in Bandar Seri Begawan was attended by over 50 of the bank's staff and management. The staff recognition programme is an initiative spearheaded by the bank's Service Quality team, to encourage staff to sharpen their customer service skills as well as to develop higher standards in professionalism.

HSBC's Bandar Seri Begawan branch received token gifts for winning the Outstanding Retail Store Award twice in the first quarter of the year, while Aizan Hj Jalin, Ak Sufi Pg Rambli and Angela Ng Yun Tai received Service Elite Awards.

Nurul Dini Hj Zamari was awarded the Star Performer Award while Dk Yani Suriana Pg Yahya, Md Hydayath Hj Md Tahir, Hj Md Khairuddin Hj Md Kassim, Hjh Norhuwaina Awg Mohiddin, Siti Mainadeera Abdullah, Alex Lee Chee Hiang, Hjh Zuraidah Hj Zaili, Raezah Hj Md Zain, Mary Lee Yuit Sim, Tan Boon Sin, Ang Ching Ee and Haryani Hj Md Taib each won a Best Internal Service Partner Award for their continuous support and consistent delivery of Customer Services.

Award recipients received certificates, hampers and shopping vouchers.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management said in his speech, "It is vital that we maintain our position as the best service provider in the market and continue towards improving ourselves in both the quality of our service and sales. The management is very committed to encouraging the staff's mentality that outstanding service depends very much in rapport building and in maintaining quality relationships with customers and employees."

HSBC prides itself as an organisation that places great emphasis on offering outstanding customer services as well as conducting business with due skill, care and diligence.

For more information about HSBC Brunei and its products and services, visit your nearest HSBC branch or click online at www.hsbc.com.bn

      HSBC INTRODUCES USD 3 YEARS 100% PRINCIPAL PROTECTED LIBOR FLOATER STRUCTURED NOTES
Thursday, 19th May 2010

HSBC Brunei has recently launched a new addition to its comprehensive range of investment products - the USD 3 Years 100% Principal Protected Libor Floater Structured Notes.

This 100% Capital Protected Structured Note has a maximum potential return of up to 7.8% over a tenor of 3 years, and is linked to the performance of 3-month USD LIBOR per annum., subject to a Coupon Floor of 1.45% per annum and a Coupon Cap of 2.6% per annum. It will be available until 4 June 2010, and has an initial minimum subscription amount of USD5,000.

"With the low interest rate environment, we understand investors are looking for different investment alternatives that can provide them with potential returns superior to time deposits of a similar tenor, and most importantly, assurance of capital protection. This new addition to our range of Structured Notes has these features, and is also designed for investors with a "Moderately Bullish" view on USD interest rate" said Jenny Lau, the Manager of Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei. "Furthermore, this Note will also pay out quarterly coupons, subject to the Coupon Floor and Coupon Cap, which will suit investors who are looking for regular income over the investment period." she continued.

In addition, under The Sale campaign of HSBC, structured notes investors will be entitled to lucky draw entries to win cash prizes and shopping vouchers. Every BND 1,000 invested will earn customers 1 chance in both the Weekly and Grand draws.

For more information, customers can visit their nearest HSBC branch and talk to the dedicated team of Relationship Managers or Personal Bankers.

      GLOBAL MARKETS HSBC BRUNEI TREAT CUSTOMERS TO IRON MAN2
Saturday, 15th May 2010

Recently, the Global Markets HSBC Brunei team treated over 100 customers and their families to a customer appreciation movie night showcasing one of Marvel's greatest comics: Iron Man 2 at the Empire Cinema.

The customers were invited to join HSBC's Chief Executive Officer Tareq Muhmood and Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management Rosdi Amin Yaakub for a light and delicious refreshment before the start of the movie. Also present were Salyahrinah Yahya, Treasurer, Global Markets HSBC Brunei as well as bank staff from Global Banking and other departments.

Salyahrinah Yahya said, "A special event like this presents us with an opportunity to foster closer relationships with our customers in a relaxed and fun environment; at the same time, allowing them to enjoy a thrilling action-packed box office hit on the big screen"

Global Markets HSBC Brunei manages the bank's treasury operations which includes dealing in foreign exchange and interest rates.

      THE HSBC ADVANCE LAUNCH EVENT
Saturday, 08th May 20100

HSBC today officially launched the latest addition to its vast range of products and services - HSBC Advance, at the Royal Berkshire Hall of the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong.

The guest of Honour was Yang Amat Mulia, Pengiran Anak Khairul Khalil Pengiran Syed Haji Jaafari. The exclusive event was attended by over 200 guests comprising of the Minister of Finance (tbc), Dato Hj Eusoff Agaki, Deputy Minister at Prime Minister's Office, Senior Government Officials, HSBC Advance customers, members of the public and management and staff of HSBC Brunei.

In his welcoming address, Mr. Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei said, "In Asia Pacific, Brunei was one of the first countries to launch HSBC Advance along with Hong Kong, Taiwan, India and The Philippines. Malaysia, Singapore, China and Australia will follow shortly. HSBC Advance brings together HSBC's global capabilities, and allows it to be tailored and effectively delivered to our precious customers".

Guests were treated to performances by local talents; Fakhrul Razi, Maria, the Seeds with music by the talented band Atmosphere. The event ended with a special lucky draw where three guests had the opportunity to take home the latest iPad, an iPod touch and an iPod Nano.

HSBC Advance is a new global personal banking proposition for the new and growing emerging mass affluent segment in Brunei. HSBC Advance offers aspirational, financially progressive emerging mass affluent customers with a simple, interactive and efficient banking experience to gain better control of their future.

Customers can enjoy smarter, easier and faster banking services using the wide range of personal banking services designed to make customer's life easier, and include a dedicated team of HSBC Advance Relationship Managers and an HSBC Advance ATM Card with lifetime fee waiver on the annual fee.

HSBC Advance is designed to help customers protect everything they value the most with plans prepared by HSBC's team of wealth management experts which range from life insurance, general insurance and protection plans. Customers can build their wealth faster with the support, analysis and investment solutions they need with a dedicated team of trained and accredited HSBC Advance Relationship Managers to assist their wealth planning.

In addition, HSBC Advance customers will also receive support and assistance overseas with cross border facilities and emergency support services, which includes pre-arranged cross border account opening and worldwide emergency cash assistance.

For more information on HSBC Advance, visit your nearest HSBC Branch or click on to www.hsbcadvance.com.bn

      HSBC DUAL CURRENCY PLUS NOTES
Wednesday, 05th May 2010

HSBC is pleased to announce the launch of two new structured notes, the SGD 1 Month Dual Currency Plus Notes - linked to GBP and the SGD 1 Month Dual Currency Plus Notes linked to AUD.

Both products are the latest additions to HSBC's already extensive suite of investment products, which are specifically designed to help customers achieve their financial objectives.

These Dual Currency Plus Notes have a maximum potential return of 6.5% per annum for the note linked to GBP and a maximum potential return of 10% per annum for the note linked to AUD.

"The Notes are easily accessible to all our investors. They are suitable for sophisticated investors who hold a strong view of the direction of the exchange rates and allows them the opportunity to earn much higher yields than possible through time deposits." said Jenny Lau, the Manager of Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei.

For more information customers can visit www.hsbc.com.bn or any of the bank's 10 branches nationwide for a free financial health check.


HSBC NEWS APRIL 2010

HSBC SPEAKERS GROUP COACHES STUDENTS ON PUBLIC SPEAKING

Friday, 30th April 2010

HSBC Speakers Group (HSG) under Toastmaster[s International recently organised a Youth Leadership Programme (YLP) for students from Pusat Tingkatan Enam Meragang. The YLP is based on the belief that every student has the potential to become confident leaders and competent communicators. All they need is a safe and encouraging environment to acquire, and practise this new knowledge and skill.

HSBC's Manager Corporate Sustainability Mr Lim Boon Teck said, "The programme teaches students to overcome the nervousness that is felt with public speaking and also on how to organise and present ideas in a logical and convincing manner."

19 enthusiastic and more confident participants recently received Certificates of Achievement after completing 4 half day sessions of the Toastmaster's International Youth Leadership Programme conducted by members of the HSBC Brunei Speakers Group.

According to one of the participants, Mohd Muzakkir bin Hj Zakaria, "I would never be able to enhance my public speaking skills (without the help of this programme). I feel more confident than ever now. I realised that I can actually talk for more than a minute. I appreciate every single effort that HSBC has put into making this program an educational, interactive and fun one".

Dyg Roslin Bte Darat, coordinator for the Youth Leadership Programme for PTE Meragang said, "On behalf of our school, we'd like to thank HSBC for holding this programme. It was an excellent opportunity for our students as it helped developed students' communication. I can see that the students are more open and confident".

It gives great satisfaction to the HSBC Coordinators & fellow HSBC volunteers to see teachers and parents in awe of the students' transformation from being shy to becoming such confident, passionate individuals in such a short duration.

HSBC Speaker's Group's YLP Coordinator Ms Elizabeth Sim said "I am grateful and extremely happy to be a part of the students learning process in becoming the best that they can be. On behalf of my team, I am proud to have been given this opportunity to make a difference in the lives of others through the YLP. Life is about making choices and the students made that choice to show up and definitely made the programme even more rewarding. The students turned it into a meaningful, magical and memorable experience for everyone especially for myself."

As a collaborative effort to give back to the community by the HSBC Speakers Group and the Corporate Sustainability effort, the HSG has been organising Youth Leadership Programmes catered to students since 2006.

Ms Ruey Chong-Narcis, President of the HSG said, "This programme is focused on Brunei's youth who are at the brink of going on for further studies, by strengthening the foundation blocks for leadership, listening and communication skills through 'learning by doing' as it serves to boost their self confidence and facilitate their personal growth. I would also like to thank the Brunei Speaker's Club Vice President of Education, Kaewan Tan for supporting this event."

      HSBC FURTHERS ITS INITIATIVES IN GOING GREEN
Monday, 26th April 2010

As part of HSBC's effort to limit the environmental impact of its operation, HSBC GROUP has recently implemented a Group policy on the procurement and use of paper.

With effect from 01 Jan 2010;

- All paper, print and paper-based products used by HSBC must come from FSC compliant or near-compliant source.
- HSBC must ensure that the principles of sustainable development are considered when purchasing paper, print and other paper-based products.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) is a non-profit organization devoted to encouraging the responsible management of the world's forests. Products bearing the FSC logo guarantees that the wood / paper pulp are from a certified well-managed forest.

HSBC Brunei started sourcing for FSC paper in July 2009. "It was a challenge sourcing for FSC paper as there were no local suppliers" said HSBC Procurement Manager, Fanny Chua. "But we were pleased that one of our paper suppliers managed to bring in the FSC paper especially for us"

As consumers / customers become more aware of the challenge of climate change and global warming, more will opt for sustainable / renewable products. "FSC paper is more expensive now, but prices are expected to come down when more customers opt for the paper and the number of suppliers increase".

"We can now add FSC paper to the list of environmental initiatives such as Earth Hour, ASEAN Energy Management award and Hybrid Prius where HSBC took the first step. HSBC Brunei is taking the leadership role to inspire others to follow" said Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability.

Apart from the changes in the type of paper used in HSBC, the bank also initiated a Paper-knife Project whereby a review was made on paper consumption and cost. Printing habits were challenged and paperless methods were recommended to be applied to current work practices/procedures. HSBC staff were urged to "join-up" in changing their printing habits and mentality in the workplace; i.e. aiming towards a paperless working environment and directly preserving and protecting the environment by going green where possible. This resulted in a 20% reduction in the consumption of A4 paper, more than 1,195 reams. The Paper-knife Project also challenged our customers to adopt e-statements over paper statements. This call to action has been a huge success with approximately 34% of statements and advices across all product range now being delivered via our award wining Internet banking proposition (including 99% of HSBC Personal Internal Banking Customers receiving eStatement). This compares with just 6% at the start of 2009.

Customers that would like to switch to eStatements and advices may do so by registering at www.hsbc.com.bn

      KLH INC WINS THE HSBC YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARDS 2009-2010
Sunday, 25th April 2010


Team KLH Inc walked away as the Gold Award winners of The HSBC Young Entrepreneur Awards (YEA), earning them the coveted position of representing Brunei at the HSBC YEA Finals which will be held in Kuala Lumpur this June.

The Gold Award team will compete against other Gold Award teams from Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, The Philippines, Bangladesh and Hong Kong in hopes of winning the Best of the Best Award and a self development cash prize of HKD 100,000 (BND 20,000).

In this final round of the competition, three teams; team Diamond Age, team KLH Inc and team Pestpushers took turns presenting their business ideas and plans to a panel of judges comprising of individuals from the Business and Education sector.

Judging the teams were Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking HSBC Brunei, Shazali Sulaiman Partner at KPMG Auditors, Dr Joyce Teo Siew Yean, Senior Lecturer, Faculty of Business, Economics and Policy Studies and Deputy Director of International & Pulic Relations Office Universiti Brunei Darusslam and Albert Tan, Executive Director of Everon Sdn Bhd as well as managing Great Future Sdn Bhd and Vincci.

Present at the event as the Guest of honour was Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Lela Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abdul Rahman bin Dato Setia Haji Mohamed Taib, Minister of Education, also present was Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management of HSBC Brunei as well as officers from the Ministry of Education and students from colleges and schools nationwide. The event took place at Manggis Ballroom, Hua Ho Manggis Mall.

In his welcoming speech Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer HSBC said "HSBC seeks to foster young people's ingenuity and entrepreneurial spirits which are essential qualities for tomorrow's business leaders."

Family, friends and fellow students from their respective colleges in the audience cheered on as Team KLH Inc students from maktab duli and pusat tingkatan enam meragang were presented with their prize by Yang Berhormat Pehin on stage.

The Silver Award was presented to Team Diamond Age whilst Team Pest Pushers came third and was presented with the Bronze Award. All three finalist teams will travel to Kuala Lumpur for a week long Entrepreneurial Trip as well as received trophies, certificates and self development funds of BND 3000, BND 2000 and BND 1000 respectively.

Team KLH Inc also bagged the Eco-Business innovation award and a cash prize of BND 500 for their business idea which incorporated environmental considerations such as reduction of adverse environmental impact, commitment to sustainable growth and protection of finite resources.

The HSBC Young Entrepreneur Awards (YEA) is an annual business plan writing competition for tertiary level students. Launched in Brunei in 2008, it is now in its third year and provides the youth with an opportunity to demonstrate their creativity and enhance their business acumen.

      HSBC YOUNG ENTREPRENEUR AWARD FINALS!
Saturday, 24th April 2010

Tomorrow will see the culmination of over 6 months of preparation and hard work as three teams will vie for the Gold Award in the HSBC Young Entrepreneur Awards (YEA) Competition 2009-2010. The Gold Award winners will also represent Brunei in the HSBC YEA Finals which will be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia in June this year.

Team Diamond Age consisting of Ak Mohd Fadhil Pg Hj Ali (Maktab Duli), Abdul Malik Haji Omar (Maktab Duli) and Michell Yap (Maktab Duli), Team KLH Inc consisting of Kelvin Soo (Maktab Duli), Arvin Ong (Pusat Tingkatan Enam, Meragang) and Joel Kester (Pusat Tingkatan Enam, Meragang) and Team Pestpushers consisting of Nurul Azimah Hj Ishan Khalil (Pusat Tingkatan Enam, Meragang) and Abdur Rahim Hj Abdur Rahman (Pusat Tingkatan Enam, Meragang) were the successful finalists from three grueling rounds of the business writing competition which saw 35 teams contending in teams of three - for a place in the Brunei finals.

The Brunei competition started in October 2009, where teams were required to submit an outline of an innovative business idea of 1000 words which could lead to a successful business, whether it is a new product or service that fulfils a market niche or even an enhancement of an existing product or service that has the potential to create value, increase sales or reduce costs. It may even consist of an entirely new idea or it could focus on a new way of doing things.

From an initial total of 35 teams, 20 teams with the best ideas - judged based on the originality, creativity and business viability were selected to continue on to the second round.

Qualified teams attended a business plan writing workshop, ran by Doreen Ong (Senior Relationship Manager, Commercial Banking), Leonard Lee (Credit Manager, Credit Risk Management) and Judy Low (Marketing Manager) from HSBC Brunei, teaching the students the important elements needed for the second round's task - submitting a complete business plan designed to attract potential investors which was accessed by a panel of qualified judges.

From there, 8 teams qualified to the third round where they were interviewed by a panel of judges to answer questions relating to their business proposal.

Three teams succeeded to climb in the finals - Diamond Age, KLH Inc. and Pestpushers. The three teams, after a motivational note from Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking, were further coached by Ruey Chong, Lim Tiong Ho, Lim Chee Pin and Jason Rumpun from HSBC Commercial Banking to refine their business plan presentation as well as hone their public speaking skills.

The prizes are attractive, with the winning team taking home a self-development fund of BND3000 plus trophies, certificates and an opportunity to compete in the regional competition in Kuala Lumpur this coming June 2010, where they will stand the chance of winning a business development fund of HK$100,000 (approx. BND20,000).

HSBC Young Entrepreneurs Award (YEA) was launched in Brunei for the first time in January 2008. The competition, aimed at providing incentives for aspiring young entrepreneurs from local tertiary level institutions. First launched in Hong Kong in 2000, the HSBC YEA competition now runs concurrently in six other countries namely Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Bangladesh, Vietnam and Brunei.

Top three teams from each country will be on a week long entrepreneurial trip in Malaysia where they will have the chance to experience the real world of business by mingling with successful entrepreneurs and go on corporate visits to successful companies in Kuala Lumpur. On top of all that, participants will have workshops lined up on communication and leadership skills with seminars on successful eco-businesses.

      HSBC HOST HOME SCREENING AT THE MALL CINEPLEX
Thursday, 22nd April 2010

In conjunction with Earth Day which falls on the 22nd April 2010.

"HOME" by Yann Arthus Bertrand is a visual illustration of the planet's fragile state entirely from a bird's-eye view in stunning high definition. With spectacular aerial views from more than 50 countries, viewers will see the extent of human impact on our landscapes. In the past 50 years --a single lifetime -- the Earth has been more radically changed than by all previous generations of humanity.

The movie, organized by HSBC and supported by the Mall Cineplex will be free for show to the public from the 21st to 22nd April 2010 at the Mall Cineplex. This is to increase the public awareness on humanity impact on planet earth.

Among those present at the event were the Deputy Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Yang Mulia Dato Paduka Awang Haji Hamdillah bin Haji Abd Wahab and the officials from Department of Environment, Park & Recreation (JASTRE) and students of Jerudong International School (JIS).

Also present are the Senior Managers of HSBC Brunei including Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei and Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC.

Some of the invited guest also attended the 4th Heart of Borneo Trilateral Meeting held at the Rizqun International Hotel. It was also befitting that after the meeting, the screening of Home ties in nicely and concluded the evening.

      HSBC CELEBRATES EARTH DAY WITH FREE MOVIE
Saturday, 17th April 2010

In conjunction with Earth Day which falls on the 22nd April 2010, HSBC is proud to present the environmental awareness movie "HOME" by Yann Arthus Bertrand. The movie will be free for show to the public from the 21st to 22nd April 2010 at the Mall Cineplex.

"HOME" is a visual illustration of the planet's fragile state entirely from a bird's-eye view in stunning high definition. With spectacular aerial views from more than 50 countries, viewers will see the extent of human impact on our landscapes. In the past 50 years --a single lifetime -- the Earth has been more radically changed than by all previous generations of humanity.

The movie is organized by HSBC to increase the public awareness on humanity impact on planet earth and is free to the public from the 21st April to 22nd April 2010.

"This is part of our efforts to raise awareness and educate the public on the impact of human insatiable consumption on the environment. The movie was a real eye opener for me and I am sure many others will feel the same. This is why we took the trouble to bring in the film all the way from France." said Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability.

The general public or schools who are interested in viewing "HOME" on the big screen are advised to contact the Mall Cineplex and get their tickets early.

      JOIN HSBC IN CYCLING FOR SMARTER
Thursday, 15th April 2010

The most anticipated cycling event in Brunei is back again.

This year, the HSBC cycling challenge will be raising funds for SMARTER Brunei.

This year's event themed, "Cycle for SMARTER" will see cyclists take on the 108km challenge from HSBC Kuala Belait to Autism Spectrum Disorder Center at Sengkurong.

SMARTER Brunei is a non profit, non government organization dedicated to the education of autistic children and individual. HSBC has been a proud supporter of SMARTER Brunei for many years.

To cater for wider participation and increase awareness on autism, the organisers has also included a short 8km Community Challenge in this year's event. The 8km community challenge will begin from HSBC Jerudong and finishes at Autism Spectrum Disorder Center at Sengkurong as well. The 8km challenge is open to the children as well.

"Cycle for SMARTER" has also received endorsement from local and international celebrities such as Wu Chun, Putri Norizah Ibnor Riza, Fakhrul Razi and DJ Izan. Each of whom will support the event or SMARTER in various way.

In order to ensure that the public are aware of safety and have the best chance of completing the challenge, the orgainser will be holding training sessions every Sunday at the National Stadium. General public who are interested, are welcome to join the training.

The registration fees for the 108 km and 8km community challenge is $20 and $10 respectively. Interested participant can register at any HSBC Branch, Triple Star Enterprise and Fitness Zone. Registration will close on 02nd June 2010.

For more information on the event please visit www.cycleforsmarter.com
      HSBC ADVANCE STARTS THE 'SPOT THE CAR STICKER' COMPETITION
Wednesday, 14th April 2010

The world's local bank in conjunction with the recent launch of their latest proposition HSBC Advance is organising a weekly car spotting competition. The competition, which started last Friday, will go on until 30 April where the bank's staff looking out for the stickers will be at different locations throughout.

The first week saw over 100 eager cars supporting the HSBC Advance branded car stickers in Bandar Seri Begawan. The car spotting will go on every Friday of April 2010 at 10.30am, where Kristal FM will announce the location for the cars to be spotted. Cars supporting the HSBC Advance branded car stickers need to look out for HSBC staff that will be taking note of car license plates for the draw.

The competition is open to everyone including those that don't bank with HSBC. Simply pick up a sticker from any of the branches, stick it on the car window, listen out for the location on Friday mornings and stand a chance of winning exciting prizes.

Prizes up for grab include a netbook, 42 inch LCD TV, an iPhone and a cash prize of BND 800. The winning license plate will be announced weekly on Kristal FM and the HSBC Advance website hsbcadvance.com.bn.

HSBC Advance, the latest proposition offered by HSBC is a new style of banking that gives customers a new range of smarter and more convenient banking designed to help customers make the most of today, tomorrow and the future. For more information on HSBC Advance and the Car Spotting Competition, visit your nearest HSBC Branch or click on to www.hsbcadvance.com.bn

      HSBC PRESENTS MORE MOBILE PHONES TO CUSTOMERS
Friday, 09th April 2010

Today, HSBC again gave away 30 sets of mobile phones to their customers simply because they have transferred their salaries to HSBC. The prize presentation took place at the bank's Serusop Branch in Jalan Muara.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy CEO and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei was on hand to congratulate the winners and hand over the prizes.

The lucky customers who each won an LG Chocolate were:

- Siva Kumar Limbu
- Tan Geck Chuan
- Allen Hazel
- Supardi
- Rohaidah Anizah Ahim
- Wong Kong Choon
- Md Abdus Salam Harun / Rashid
- Md Eswandey Safar
- Md Nor Iswan Md Azni
- Noraini Ibrahim
The lucky customers who each took home either an LG GT505 or a Nokia 5800 were:

- Rokiah Hj Aspar@Ghapar/ Hj Aspar Hj Gharip#Ghapar
- Hee Wei Nee
- Jayadi Hotman Sitorus / Marlina Tobing
- Ching Fong Cyen
- Judy Steele
- Maryono
The lucky customers who each received an LG GW525 were:

- Nur Huraizah Jamaludin
- Siti Zahorin Ahmad
- Surendra Prakash Limbu
- Mohamad Azrin Awang Timbang
- Anuar Momin
- Lim Yii Yueng
- Kok Nyuk Lin
- Wan Siti Azrina Arip
- Jose Rex T Oracion
- Salomah Mornie
The lucky customers who won a Samsung Preston were:

- Milami Hj Ismail
- Miharja Abd Warith
- Saadiah Seri
- Chieng Ai Muong
Up to a total of 100 mobile phones will be given away in the Monthly draw for new and existing HSBC customers who have assigned their salaries to the bank. This promotion which runs till 30th April 2010 will also automatically enrolled these customers into the Grand Lucky draw, where they stand a chance to be one of the five winners - each taking home an exciting cash prize of $10,000.

Concurrently, customers that signed up for HSBC Advance, the Bank's latest global personal banking proposition, will also be eligible for the current campaign. HSBC Advance customers will receive double chances in the Monthly draws. In addition, they will benefit from an integrated financial services platform that will also introduce them to relationship-based banking and wealth management. Customers can visit www.hsbcadvance.com.bn for more information on HSBC Advance.

For further details on the campaign, customers can call the HSBC help desk at 2 252 296, email to hsbc@hsbc.com.bn or visit their nearest HSBC branches.

      HSBC SPEARHEAD FRAUDS COMMITTEE
Wednesday, 07th April 2010

With an increasing fraud trends in Brunei Darussalam, HSBC Brunei through the Brunei Association of Banks (BAB) spearheaded the establishment of its first ever fraud committee, The Brunei Association of Banks Fraud Committee (BAOBFC).

Representatives from all member banks in the Brunei Association of Banks & TAIB sit in this newly formed committee. The intention of this committee is to share and focus on solutions against financial fraud that impacts the banking industry and consumers alike. Whilst there is ongoing collaboration amongst the member banks on issues of mutual interest, financial crime and fraud has received little attention in the past.

Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB), Royal Brunei Police Force, Attorney General Chambers (AGC) and the Ministry of Finance have provided their full support and assistance, also acting as members of the committee serving on an advisory capacity.

The first meeting held in March was mainly to discuss on the objectives of the committee and to network with other institutions. After which, meetings will be held quarterly with actionable initiatives taking place.

According to Dexter Keasberry, HSBC Security and Fraud Manager, "The Committee provides an excellent platform to discuss and update matters on financial crime and fraud that is increasingly becoming a threat not just in Brunei, but within the region".

"Primarily the committee aims to promote fraud awareness within the banking industry and the public, share experiences and best practices in detection as well as enhance banking staff competency against fraud. Establishing a closer working relationship with law enforcement agencies, and subsequent effective reporting is also key to the success of the committee "he said.

Keasberry continued that with the implementation of the new credit card guidelines, consumers could resort to desperate measures in acquiring additional funds through devious tactics.

"For example, one of the most common frauds in Brunei is identity theft whereby one person uses someone else's details, or even falsifying employment details, for the sole purpose of applying for banking facilities are serious crimes which will be addressed in the committee. There is a need to create awareness amongst the members of the public not to be too relaxed with their identification particulars".

      HSBC ADVANCE 'SPOT THE CAR STICKER' COMPETITION
Monday, 05th April 2010

In conjunction with the HSBC Advance launch on 29 March 2010, HSBC will be running a 'Car Spotting' Competition, starting 5 April 2010 until 30 April 2010. Members of the public will have a chance to win a range of exciting prizes.

The aim of this competition is to raise public awareness of the Bank's latest proposition HSBC Advance, which is geared towards the growing emerging mass affluent segment in Brunei.

Members of the public can drop by any of the HSBC Branches to collect the HSBC Advance branded Car Stickers. Every day starting 5 April 2010, there will be Radio Advertisements on Kristal FM directing customers to collect the stickers at branches. There will be 1 prize per week. The prizes include a Netbook, 42 inch LCD TV, Cash and iPhone.

For the next 4 Fridays of April 2010, announcements will be broadcasted on Kristal FM Radio Station for the Car Spotting location. HSBC Staffs, as the car spotters, will be standing next to the HSBC Advance banners, indicating that they are doing the car-spotting activity. During these times, the registration numbers of cars with HSBC Advance branded Car Stickers passing by the spotters will be noted and entered into a weekly draw.

The first car-spotting event will take place on Friday, 9 April at a location that will be announced on Kristal FM Radio Station that same day. One lucky car owner will have the chance to win one of the exciting prizes.

Members of the public who are interested in participating in the competition are encouraged to pick up their HSBC Advance branded Car Stickers from their nearest HSBC branch before they run out!

For more information on HSBC Advance and the Car Spotting Competition, visit your nearest HSBC Branch or click on to www.hsbcadvance.com.bn

      CYCLE FOR SMARTER
Friday, 02nd April 2010

HSBC will once again organise another Cycling Challenge this year. Since its inception in 2008, the HSBC cycling challenge is the most anticipated Cycling Event in Brunei. This year, HSBC will co-organise the Event with SMARTER Brunei.

"We are proud to work with SMARTER this year on this event so that they can further their efforts with autistic individuals in Brunei. This is in line with the bank's commitment to support education for disadvantaged children" said Tareq Muhmood, CEO HSBC Brunei.

SMARTER (Society for the Management of Autism Related Issues in Training, Education and Resources), was established on 9th September 2001. In less than a decade, SMARTER rose from its humble beginnings to become an institution with international repute.

With increased awareness on autism, there is now a greater demand for services provided by SMARTER.

As a non-profit non government organisation, SMARTER relies heavily on public donations to sustain its operations and aspirations. HSBC has been a proud supporter of SMARTER for many years, and this year's cycling challenge is just one of the many initiatives that HSBC does in support of SMARTER.

This year cycling event themed "CYCLE FOR SMARTER" will be held on 20th June 2010. There will be 2 categories; the "108 km Challenge" category will start at 7..0 am from HSBC Kuala Belait and will end at the Autism Spectrum Disorder Center, Sengkurong. Whilst the "8km Community Challenge" category, which is also open to children will start at 12 p.m. from HSBC Jerudong and ends at Autism Spectrum Disorder Center, Sengkurong.

Registration fees for the "108 Km Challenge" and "8km Community Challenge" will be $20 and $10 respectively. All registration fees will be donated to SMARTER.

In addition, not only will participants receive chances of winning lucky draw prizes from Triple Star Enterprise, each participant will also receive an exclusive HSBC cycling bottle and a one month free membership at Fitness Zone Club.

Interested participants can get more information from www.cycleforsmarter.com. This event is also endorsed by local celebrities; Wu Chun, Putri and Fakhrul Razi. Apart from endorsing the event, Wu Chun will also be auctioning autographed items on eBay to raise fund for SMARTER.

Registration for the event will open on 15th April 2010 and forms are available from at all HSBC Branches, Triple Star Enterprise and Fitness Zone.


HSBC NEWS MARCH 2010s

HSBC STAFF GOES ON NATURE JOURNEY TO KUALA BELALONG

Wednesday, 31st March 2010

Last weekend, a team of 24 HSBC staff went on 2-day trip to the Kuala Belalong Field Study Center. The trip was spear headed by HSBC Climate Champions Lim Boon Teck, Eva Ng and Frederick Chong.

The trip's whole objective was to help HSBC staff gain a better appreciation of the 25ha forest dynamic study plot sponsored by HSBC Brunei, assist the resident researchers collect scientific data from the field, increase their awareness on the importance of conservation and garner support in HSBC's initiatives in fighting climate change.

The 25ha field study plot at the Kuala Belalong Field Study Centre (KBFSC) was one of the numerous projects listed under Brunei Heart of Borneo initiative. This project will bring in expertise from Centre for Tropical Forest Science (CTFS) of the Smithsonian Tropical Rainforest Institute (STRI) and University Brunei Darussalam. The vast research plot will provide scientific information on the impact of climate change on forest growth, its ability to store carbon and useful information for better management of Brunei forests. The project will also contribute to better understanding on the relationship between forests and climate change globally.

The involvement of CTFS and STRI will enhance the international profile of UBD and KBFSC which in turn will attract more international scientists and researchers to Brunei.

On day 1, upon the participants' arrival, they were briefed by Mr. Salleh of KBFSC on safety issues that they should be aware of while being amongst the forest. Participants were warned that certain city dweller habits may attract unwanted attention. For example, leaving food on the tables will attract tree mice which in turn will attract snakes - an incident which has occurred before.

After lunch, Mr. Khoo Meng Seng, Project Manager of CTFS, STRI gave the participants a detailed briefing on the 25 ha project and the fieldwork that participants will be conducting the next day. The team took also took a trip to the canopy walk. The breath taking scenery helped put the HSBC sponsorship and STRI and UBD research effort into perspective.

"The steps coming up the Canopy walk was scary for me. But the scenery is up here is simply awesome. Seeing all this for the first time, I realised the value of HSBC sponsored project and the importance conserving this for the future" said Denny Zahril.

Later that night Dr Ulmar Grafe from UBD gave a talk on the rich biodiversity of Kuala Belalong. The variety and complexity of wild life in Belalong is simply intriguing.

"I was astonished by the bio diversity of Kuala Belalong. As part of my climate champion training, I spent 2 weeks in China Regional Climate Center, where there is another STRI forest dynamic plot. But the bio diversity of Kuala Belalong is so much richer and broader." said Frederick Chong

On day 2, the day started early at 6 a.m. as the team get ready for the fieldwork. It had been raining the night before; the 1.3 km hike to the plot was made more slippery and treacherous. After an hour and a half of hiking, the team reached the center of the plot which is 350m above the starting point. It was not a walk in the park.

" I really have to take my hat off to the researchers and field workers. They have to walk the distance on an upward slope everyday. Then they have to work under extreme condition. It takes real passion, dedication and determination to do this day in and day out" said Lim Boon Teck.

After a brief rest, the team saw a demonstration of how a quadrant plot was marked, took tree measurements and took leaf samples from trees that rose more than 90m in the air. The group then took part at collecting data on tree diameters which the researchers will use in the future.

After more than 4 hours in the forest, the team got out safely and immediately took to the stream for a refreshing dip.

Before their departure back to city life, Ming Seng the Project Manager from STRI debriefed the team on their achievement and gave a brief demonstration on preserving the bio samples they were collected in the morning.

"I've really enjoyed this experiencem hopefully I will get another opportunity to come back here and do more" said Ricky Lim.

For more information on the HSBC Climate Partnership, visit http://www.ctfs/si.edu/group/HSBC+Climate+Partnership/Videos

      HSBC LAUNCHES NEW INVESTMENT PRODUCTS
Wednesday, 31th March 2010

HSBC Brunei recently launched a new multi-asset investment product, HSBC Portfolios - World Selection targeting at all kinds of investors with different risk appetites. This new product comprises of a series of three investment portfolios that combines sophisticated investment techniques, a wide range of global investments and the best investment skills available in the market, monitored around the clock by HSBC's investment experts.

Each of the three portfolios range has been adapted for a particular customer risk profile. Investments are in traditional assets such as bonds, and equities, and alternative assets which are not normally available to retail investors such as commodities, hedge funds, private equity, absolute return and property.

The mix of assets is actively managed to reflect HSBC's views on the markets, "Having the right combination of assets is the key to investment returns. However, as no single manager can do everything all the time and under different economic cycles, a multimanager approach is an efficient solution for implementing multi-assets portfolios. At HSBC, we have one of the world's largest multimanager research teams, which allow us to pick managers with the requisite skill in a specific area to optimise potential returns while minimising manager style risk." said Jenny Lau, the Manager of Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei.

For this new product launch, between 1 April 10 and 30 April 10, HSBC is offering a 50% reduction on the initial sales charge of HSBC Portfolios - World Selection. The minimum investment subscription amount for HSBC Portfolios - World Selection is BND1,000 and customers can also invest under HSBC's Monthly Investment Plan by choosing a period of time to invest, according to their budget and preferred timeframe.

For more information on the World Selection Funds, customers can visit their nearest HSBC branch and talk to the dedicated team of Relationship Managers for a free Personal Financial Review.

      HSBC ADVANCE TO PROPEL EMERGING MASS AFFLUENT TO FINANCIAL INDEPENDENCE
Friday, 30th March 2010

***Covers day-to-day banking, lifestyle protection, wealth management and international services **

HSBC has launched a new global personal banking proposition for the new and growing emerging mass affluent segment in Brunei. HSBC Advance offers aspirational, financially progressive emerging mass affluent customers with a simple, interactive and efficient banking experience to gain better control of their future.

HSBC Advance is designed to support the evolving financial ambitions of over 150 million individuals in this segment. HSBC Advance customers will benefit from an integrated financial services platform that will also introduce them to relationship-based banking and wealth management.

Rosdi Amin, Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management and Deputy Chief Executive said:

"HSBC Advance will position our customers in the driver's seat of banking - where they have the benefit of a clear view and guided control of their financial journey. They will be able to build a secure financial foundation and gain the confidence to broaden and explore their financial horizons.

We aim to support one of the most important groups of individuals in the world today - the growing pool of educated, internationally minded and ambitious individuals from the emerging mass affluent - who value time, simplicity and efficiency. They are also self-directed and forward-looking individuals who seek access to wise and practical advice and knowledge from a trusted partner to fast-track their way to financial independence."

Rosdi added: "The emerging mass affluent segment is characterised by active savers who are transactional and protection-oriented. They are building a buffer so they can provide well for their family and at the same time, pursue their interests. They value transparency, speed and service over the formalities of banking. They have many aspirations so their appetite for products, tools and information that will help them grow wealth is increasing."

HSBC Advance is a new banking experience offering an all-in-one integrated account covering deposits and investments, accessible through multiple channels, including 24/7 dedicated phone banking, priority branch counters, self-service banking and a dedicated website with online money management tools. Customers can also enjoy preferential pricing on loans, overdrafts and mortgages. HSBC Advance ATM cards and HSBC Advance Visa cards with no annual fees provide customers exclusive recognition and best-in-class rewards.

HSBC Advance brings a range of services to emerging mass affluent customers for the first time. An all-in-one integrated account allows customers to access and manage all their HSBC accounts around the world online, using a one-time login. Global Transfers enables fast and easy fund transfers to and from a customer's multiple accounts in one or more markets. Emerging mass affluent customers who are increasingly becoming internationally mobile will also be able to access services at any HSBC branch, wherever they travel. Aside from access to emergency cash at any HSBC branch worldwide, they can also pre-arrange cross-border account opening and transfer their credit history to facilitate access to similar credit facilities in their new place of work or residence.

To get customers started on the road to wealth management, HSBC Advance provides a range of financial planning resources, including a team of trained and dedicated financial planners and timely HSBC views on the investment markets. Customers have a comprehensive choice of investment, insurance and retirement savings products with special offers.

HSBC Advance customers will also enjoy a range of exclusive wealth management offers, including discounts on the Sales Charge when they subscribe to Unit Trust or Unit Trust Monthly Investment Plan. There will also be rebate on Mortgage Reducing Term Assurance (MRTA) on home loans and attractive preferential rates on Home Improvement Loans.

In addition, customers will get to enjoy extensive Funding service with a personal credit line and personal instalment loan at attractive preferential interest rate and be able to enjoy HSBC Finance Purchase Loan at an attractive interest rate. For those who maintain an average credit balance of BND50,000 and above, they will be entitled to receive pre-approved overdraft facilities. And for those who sign up for HSBC Safe Deposit Box (Size A), they will get to enjoy a 100% discount on the first year rental of HSBC Safe Deposit Box (Size A) and key deposit fee and a 35% reduction on the rental fee for the second year onwards.

Rosdi added: "HSBC Advance complements our strategy to be the leading Retail Banking & Wealth Management provider for the world's growing affluent segment through a global standard of services that will take our customers from one stage of wealth to the next. We are excited to support our emerging mass affluent customers, from their day-to-day banking, to their wealth management and protection goals, to their emerging international banking needs. We are committed to build a lifelong relationship with them as they advance towards financial success."

      HSBC JOINS WWF'S EARTH HOUR 2010
Friday, 26th March 2010

HSBC offices in more than 50 countries will be switching off their lights this year to show support for WWF's Earth Hour.

Earth Hour is an annual campaign led by WWF that calls for individuals and businesses across the world to switch off their lights for one hour on Saturday March 27th at 8.30pm. HSBC believes that this symbolic act will help raise awareness about over-consumption of the world's resources.

This year, HSBC has encouraged employees to become involved in Earth Hour activities and show their personal support by signing up to the campaign at www.earthhour.org

Simon Martin, Head of HSBC Group Corporate Sustainability commented: "HSBC will switch off lights in its offices around the world to highlight to our employees, customers and the public the continued importance of thinking about the way we consume resources. Climate change remains a clear challenge to human society, and the symbolic act of powering down our offices for an hour is a way of heightening awareness of the need for everybody to act responsibly and cohesively to manage the challenge."

Across the globe, HSBC employees are demonstrating their commitment to Earth Hour 2010. HSBC Climate Champions from North America, Latin America, Asia Pacific, Europe and the Middle East are all taking the lead by encouraging fellow colleagues and the general public to join them in supporting Earth Hour and switching off their lights.

"Last year, HSBC along with only a handful of corporate institutions were the only participants in Earth Hour from Brunei. There is a certain sense of achievement to see that the movement has spread with other major corporate and individuals participating this year. We are also pleased to see that a few inspired individuals have decided to band together and volunteer to be the official representatives of Earth Hour in Brunei. With greater awareness, we hope Bruneians will play a greater role in the fight against climate change" Said Mr. Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability, HSBC Brunei

As part of the HSBC Climate Partnership, WWF is working to make the Amazon, Ganges, Thames and Yangtze - and the millions of people who depend on them - less vulnerable to climate change. Already with the support of HSBC, WWF has helped increase the number of protected areas in the central and lower Yangtze River delta covering a total area of 1.65 million hectares. The protected areas will not only help safeguard 50 threatened species, but will also provide areas of land where large floods - which are predicted to increase as a result of climate change - can be absorbed, thereby protecting the local communities.

For details on HSBC's sustainability initiatives, please visit www.hsbc.com\sustainability

      HSBC SUPPORTS NATURE CAMP 2010
Thursday, 25th March 2010

HSBC presented T-shirts to the Forestry Department Nature Camp 2010 on the 21st March 2010.

The Nature Camp, a bi-annual initiative organised by the Forestry Department of the Ministry of Industry and Primary Resources was held at the Berakas Forest Reserve.

Over 80 upper secondary students from schools nationwide participated in the Nature Camp where they took part in environmental studies and activities which educate them on the local flora and fauna.

"We sponsored this programme because we want to educate the next generation on the urgency of combating climate change and how conserving nature is an important issue to ensure a sustainable future," said Lim Boon Teck, Manager Corporate Sustainability.

In addition to financial support, HSBC Climate Champions were on hand last Sunday to share their experience and knowledge on Climate Change. As part of the learning session, the nature campers were engaged in games and fun activities where they stood chances to win movie tickets and other goodies.

Students were also given tips on how to lower their carbon foot print and encouraged to be more proactive in combating climate change. At the end of the session, all campers pledged to help raise awareness on climate change by participating in Earth Hour on 27th March 2010.

One of the HSBC Climate Champions also shared tips with students on how to reduce their domestic land fill waste through composting.

"We are delighted to be presented with this opportunity to share our knowledge. We are also very pleased to know that the level and awareness on climate change among these student are very high" said Frederick Chong, one of HSBC Champions.

      HSBC HOST DINNER FOR MR. JOHN TSANG, HONG KONG'S FINANCIAL SECRETARY
Monday, 22nd March 2010

HSBC Host dinner for Mr. John Tsang

HSBC Brunei last night hosted a dinner reception in honour of Hong Kong's Financial Secretary Mr. John Tsang.

Mr. Tsang's three day stop in Brunei Darussalam is to foster understanding and economic ties between Hong Kong and the Sultanate.

The reception was attended by Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Awg Goh King Chin, Dato Lim Beng Thai, Chairman of Boustead Sdn Bhd, Vincent Cheong, the CEO of Brunei Economic Development Board, Members of Mr. Tsang's delegation, prominent Bruneian Businessmen as well as Senior Management from HSBC Brunei.

They were briefed by HSBC Brunei's CEO Tareq Muhmood on the country's economy, investment environment and financial industry.

      ISB STUDENTS LEARN ABOUT BANKING DURING EDUCATIONAL VISIT TO HSBC
Sunday, 21st March 2010

ISB Students learn about Banking during educational visit to HSBC
19 March 2010 - A group of year 12 ISB students made an educational visit to HSBC's Serusop Branch at Jalan Muara.

The aim of the visit was to share with the students about Information Communication Technology's impact in the banking industry and how IT is being used in marketing.

On hand to greet and brief the students was Dexter Keasberry, Security and Fraud Manager, Shaun Lim, Assistant Manager E-Channels and Alan Liew, Assistant Manager Human Resources.
      HSBC REWARDS CUSTOMERS FOR GOING PAPERLESS
Friday, 19th March 2010

Today, HSBC named the three winners of its Personal Internet Banking and Credit Card E-Statement campaign which ended recently.

A draw was conducted and the lucky winners of the promotion were Rashidah Md Jair, who has won a Sony TX1 Digital Camera, Md Jeffrey A Suresh, winner of an Apple Macbook and Mohd Said Mohd Ali who took home a Sony Vaio Net book.

The presentation took place at the bank's main branch in the Capital. On hand to present the prizes was Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei. Also present was Sukinah Ghani, Self Service and E-Banking Manager and staff members of HSBC.

"Signing up for our Personal Internet Banking allows our customers to make a choice that has a positive impact on the environment," said Rosdi. "When customers opt to receive e-statements, not only are they being eco-friendly by cutting down on paper waste, but they are also reducing their own carbon footprint."

When signing up for HSBC's Personal Internet Banking, customers can perform banking functions online, 24 hours, 7 days a week at the comfort of their own home. Additionally, when they opt to receive e-statements, not only will customers be able to track and manage their accounts digitally and safely, they also do not have to worry about not receiving their statements on time.

      FUND MANAGERS FAVOUR EQUITIES IN FAST-GROWING MARKETS
Monday, 15th March 2010

*** Three in four fund managers bullish on Greater China equities ***
*** North American equities gaining support ***
*** No fund manager overweight on cash ***

Half of fund managers polled in HSBC's quarterly Fund Managers Survey are holding a positive view on equities in the first quarter of 2010, up from 33 per cent in 4Q09.

The majority of respondents (75%) are bullish on Greater China equities in 1Q10, up from 57 per cent in the previous quarter. Seventy per cent retain an overweight view on Asia-Pacific ex-Japan equities while 60 per cent are positive about emerging markets equities, up from 56 per cent in the previous quarter. Half of the respondents are bullish on North American equities, more than double the number of respondents with an overweight view last quarter (22%).

Jenny Lau, the Manager of Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei, said: "We see appetite for equities returning as increased signs of economic recovery are evident in emerging markets. This trend is particularly true within Asia-Pacific where growth is forecast to be sustainable. In addition, with bonds achieving record gains in 2009, fund managers have turned cautious towards this asset class and are looking to equities for growth. There is an opportunity for investors to diversify equity holdings as North American equities are starting to offer attractive returns as a result of an improving US economic outlook."

Fund managers in the survey are less optimistic about bonds as an investment class, with over half (56%) of respondents taking a neutral view in 1Q10, from 33 per cent in 4Q09. Four in ten fund managers (44%) are bullish on bonds this quarter, down from 56 per cent last quarter. Of the bond classes, global emerging markets/high yield bonds posted the biggest change in outlook with 63 per cent of fund managers taking a neutral view (vs 14% in 4Q09) and 38 per cent taking an overweight view, down from 71 per cent last quarter.

More...

The quarterly HSBC survey analysed 13 of the world's leading fund management houses1 by their funds under management (FUM), their asset allocation views and their global money flows. The net money flow2 estimates are derived from movements in FUM versus index movements in the equivalent class. At the end of the fourth quarter of 2009, the fund houses covered in the survey reported aggregated FUM of US$3.48 trillion, representing about 15.3 per cent of the estimated total global FUM3.

The survey shows that at the end of 4Q09, FUM increased by US$47.6 billion, up 1.4 per cent from 3Q09. Equity funds posted an increase of US$71.3 billion in 4Q09 while bond funds rose by US$36.5 billion in 4Q09. Balanced funds, money market funds and other funds decreased.

Across all asset classes, global equity funds and global bonds posted the biggest inflows at US$9.4 billion and US$6.7 billion respectively in 4Q09, as well as the strongest growth from previous quarter. Among equity funds, Greater China equities continued to record inflows, doubling growth from 3Q09. Both equity and bond classes in developed markets, except North American equities, showed outflows in 4Q09 reflecting continued uncertainty about growth prospects in certain Western markets.

The HSBC Fund Flow Tracker, which represents cumulative dollar value of money flows over the past three and a half years, showed that the equity funds inflow in 4Q09 rebounded by nearly eight times the amount of inflows from the previous quarter. Total equity inflows in 2009 reached US$62.4 billion, just slightly short of the US$66.4 billion equity inflows recorded in 2007. The biggest bond inflows for 2009 were recorded during the last quarter of the year at US$44.3 billion. Total bond inflows for 2009 reached US$140 billion, 2.5 times the amount of inflows in 2007.

Miss Lau said: "2009 marked the return of investor confidence as wealth flows either strongly recovered from the slump in 2008, or exceeded even the highs of 2007. At the height of the financial crisis, we saw an erosion of wealth and sentiment. We also saw investors regain their ground and invest with more cautiously optimistic and selective asset allocation strategies. Investors will continue to focus on the short-term, maintaining the flexibility to change course as market conditions change. This strategy will allow them to rebalance their portfolios, take quick gains and capture new growth opportunities."

      HSBC REWARDS CUSTOMERS WITH MOBILE PHONES
Friday, 12th March 2010

Today, 30 ecstatic HSBC customers each walked away with a mobile phone by simply transferring their salaries to HSBC. The prize presentation took place at the bank's Serusop Banch in Jalan Muara.

Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy CEO and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei was on hand to congratulate the winners and hand over the prizes.

The lucky customers who each won an LG GT505 were:

- Ms Lim Koh Yin
- Pg Hj Damit@Osman bin Pg Hashim
- Ramle Laing
- Mr Dopas Haban Magdalera
- Hamidah Awg Yahya
- Nurkosin
- Purnomo
- Jalina Abdullah
- Mr Malingka Lauda
- Ms Kalthom Daud

The lucky customers who each took home a Nokia 5800 Xpress Music were:

- Mr Rai Laindra Kumar
- Hj Samsudin Hj Mumin
- Mr Kho Tong Meng
- Mr Jogie Villareal Aliviano
- Sutrisno
- Ms Goh Yann Yann
- Mr Hamsani Abd Hamid
- Ira Mona Abdullah
- Muhamad Nazri Jubli
- Mr Tilk Singh

The lucky customers who each received a Samsung S6503 Preston were:

- Md Rahimi Abd Rahman
- Mohammad Yahya Guidealdraib
- Mdm Soon Choi Ciang
- Mr Abdul Gafoor Chan Basha
- Mr Homthong Aphisit
- Normariani Murat
- Ms Johariah Wahab
- Abd Hamid Md Yusoff
- Hjh Halimah Tamit
- Jeffery Bakar Anak Nyadang

New and existing HSBC customers who have assigned their salaries to the bank will receive an entry in the Monthly draws where up to a total of 100 mobile phones will be given away. Customers will also be automatically enrolled into the Grand Lucky draw, where they stand a chance to be one of the five winners - each taking home an exciting cash prize of $10,000.

In addition, the latest salary transfer campaign from HSBC which will run to 30 April this year offers up special fee waivers on credit facilities, higher deposit rates as well as a host of other offers especially suited to your financial needs.

For further details on the campaign, customers can call the HSBC help desk at 2 252 296, email to hsbc@hsbc.com.bn or visit their nearest HSBC branches.

      TALK ON STRATEGY BY HSBC AT UBD
Thursday, 11th March 2010

As a leading institute for education in Brunei Darussalam, University Brunei Darussalam has made numerous efforts in order to take learning to the next level, from textbooks and theories to a lively and interactive lecture from a mentor. Recently, UBD had the honor of inviting Mr Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei as a guest speaker to give a lecture on "Strategy" for its Business and Public Policy students. It is hoped that by inviting Mr Muhmood, students will learn real life case studies and have a deeper understanding of their subjects.

In his presentation, Mr Muhmood explain the definition of strategies then further elaborated on the strategy traps and lastly on strategy on service industries particularly on the banking industry. He stressed the importance for companies and organizations not to be complacent otherwise it will fail sooner or later.

UBD believes that it is important that students learn directly from leaders who come from world class organizations, particularly those who have shown effective utilization of competitive tools.

Having visions, missions and statements are important for any organization and to be successful leaders, one must recognize business startegies as nowadays, even public organizations are adopting business strategies. The idea is that with a proper understanding and execution of strategies, students could become great leaders. These lectures are also part of UBD's efforts in preparing its students for life after university, particularly addressing the importance of being ready to venture into the private sector.

Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Salleh Ab Rahaman were amoungst those present at the talk which was held in one of the lecture halls at the Chancellor Hall, University Brunei Darussalam.

HSBC Brunei has established a close working relationship with UBD especially with the Faculty of Business, Economic and Policy Studies in broadening the students' knowledge of the banking sector and raised their awareness of HSBC's role in the community.

      HSBC BRUNEI HOST SEMINAR TO SHOWCASE CAPABILITIES IN RMB AND IBC
Monday, 08th March 2010

HSBC Brunei is the first foreign bank to initiate a trade settlement transaction in Renmimbi (RMB) currency and HSBC Commercial Banking Brunei (CMB) is well positioned to be a market leader in offering cross-border business services.

On 4 February 2010, CMB BSB hosted a seminar for customers to showcase HSBC's capabilities in RMB trade settlement as well as cross-border banking services offered via the CMB International Banking Centre (IBC). Response was encouraging with 50% of attendees expressed interest in conducting RMB trade transactions and 20% interested in opening business accounts oversea.

Irene Tse, Head of Corporate Banking Brunei delivered the welcoming speech and shared market updates with the audience including the trade flows statistics between Mainland China with Brunei and other ASEAN countries. Irene Tse said; "Through HSBC's continued investments and established global network, the Brunei Commercial Banking Team is definitely well positioned to support customers to capitalize opportunities in cross-border business expansion and the growth in trading with China."

The seminar continued with a presentation delivered by Lim Lih Fang, Manager Payment and Cash Management who spoke about HSBC's capabilities of RMB services including outward and inward trade payments and trade finance in the RMB currency with the Mainland Designated Enterprises (MDEs) in Guangzhou, Dongguan, Zhuhai, and Shenzhen.

Following which, Lee Hsien Hung, Assistant Manager Strategic Propositions and Channels delivered a presentation regarding CMB IBC which is a core infrastructure of CMB's Leading International Business strategy. Lee highlighted the benefits to customers such as the convenience with single point of contact in HSBC and the sharing of oversea market knowledge. Furthermore, Lee talked about the requirements and tips with respect to opening business accounts in a few popular locations including Malaysia, Hong Kong, and China.

      HSBC PREMIER OFFERS 50,000 REWARDS POINTS
Saturday, 06th March 2010

HSBC recently launched an exciting and exclusive promotion for HSBC Premier, its internationally recognised premium proposition that prioritises the local and global financial needs of customers as well as their families.

Customers who successfully sign up for HSBC Premier between 1 March and 1 May 2010 will receive 50,000 reward points which is sufficient to be converted to air miles for a round trip to Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or even Hong Kong. Customers can also choose to redeem the 50,000 reward points for any rewards of their choice in the Credit Card Rewards catalogue.

Additionally, customers signing up during the promotional period will also enjoy preferential rates on a selection of Unit Trusts products, waivers on Loan arrangement fees as well as rebates on premium of up to 7.5% for selected life and general protection plans which include Mortgage Term Assurance plans.

HSBC Premier customers can now access more than 300 International Premier Centers across the globe and enjoy the privileges that comes with HSBC Premier which includes a dedicated Premier Relationship Manager and 24/7 Phonebanking assistance.

To learn more about the current promotional offer and what HSBC Premier has to offer, customers can call their 24 hour Premier Phonebanking at 2 252 256, visit any of their 10 branches or alternatively go on-line at www.hsbcpremier.com.bn

      HSBC LAUNCHES 3 YEAR SGD SPARKLING GROWTH NOTE
Friday, 05th March 2010

Financial savvy customers interested in new, exciting investment opportunities will be pleased to know that HSBC has launched a new structured note, the 3 year SGD Sparkling Growth Note, HSBC Holdings PLC.

This latest investment product pays a guaranteed annual coupon of 0.5% p.a. and has potential for a return of up to 5.49% over 3 years.

"HSBC pre-tax profits for 2009, excluding goodwill impairment, rose by 56% compared to last year despite the challenging business environment - a highly encouraging result that is testament to the bank's sound business model. As a matter of fact, HSBC has been profitable throughout the global downturn, providing value to our shareholders year after year." said Jenny Lau, the Manager of Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei.

With HSBC's years of expertise, competence and global network customers' ambitions are made well within their reach. 100 million customers worldwide have chosen HSBC to assist them in growing their wealth and in discovering the right financial products to suit their financial goals.

"Looking ahead, HSBC will continue to expand its presence in developing countries as these markets, over the long term, will continue to grow at a faster pace than developed economies.", continued Miss. Lau.

This, the latest of HSBC's range of structured notes, provides investors with the opportunity to make higher returns over 3 years than simply keeping funds in savings.

This product is just one part of HSBC's comprehensive range of wealth management solutions and wealth protection products that can assist customers manage their wealth and grow their income. For more information customers can visit www.hsbc.com.bn or any of the bank's 10 branches nationwide for a free financial health check.


HSBC NEWS FEBRUARY 2010


HSBC CELEBRATES CHINESE NEW YEAR WITH CUSTOMERS

Thursday, 25th February 2010

Amid the ongoing Chinese New Year celebrations, HSBC Brunei held its 'open houses' in all of its branches.

Customers visiting any of its 10 branches were treated to an ambience of celebration where customers enjoyed complimentary food and drinks whilst doing their banking transactions.

"Opportunities such as these Chinese New Year 'open houses' enables our staff to foster closer ties with our customers as well as to show our appreciation for their continuous support," said Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy CEO and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, HSBC Brunei.

HSBC is currently offering a promotion called the HSBC Prosperous Delights especially for its' credit card customers with special treats on various merchants. This weekend (26 - 28 February), customers can enjoy special discounts at Shikai Restaurant.

      HSBC AMANAH NAMED BEST INTERNATIONAL ISLAMIC BANK BY EUROMONEY
Friday, 19th February 2010

HSBC yesterday invited the Chung Hwa Lion Dance troupe to perform at its main Branch in Bandar. Customers from old to young and staff members had an opportunity to enjoy the lion dance.

The Lion Dance, a Chinese tradition believed to bring luck and good fortune, is commonly performed during Chinese New year celebration as it opens the door to all good things; health, happiness, wealth and prosperity.

Also present at the performance was Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Personal Finance Services and other senior managers of HSBC Brunei. A similar performance was also held on the same day at HSBC's branch in Kuala Belait.

In welcoming the Lunar New Year, HSBC is currently offering a promotion called the HSBC Prosperous Delights especially for its' credit card customers with special treats on various merchants. This weekend (19 - 21 February), customers can enjoy special discounts at Nyonya Restaurant

      HSBC WELCOMES 'THE YEAR OF THE TIGER' WITH A ROARING LION DANCE
Thurday, 18th February 2010

HSBC yesterday invited the Chung Hwa Lion Dance troupe to perform at its main Branch in Bandar. Customers from old to young and staff members had an opportunity to enjoy the lion dance.

The Lion Dance, a Chinese tradition believed to bring luck and good fortune, is commonly performed during Chinese New year celebration as it opens the door to all good things; health, happiness, wealth and prosperity.

Also present at the performance was Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Personal Finance Services and other senior managers of HSBC Brunei. A similar performance was also held on the same day at HSBC's branch in Kuala Belait.

In welcoming the Lunar New Year, HSBC is currently offering a promotion called the HSBC Prosperous Delights especially for its' credit card customers with special treats on various merchants. This weekend (19 - 21 February), customers can enjoy special discounts at Nyonya Restaurant

      ROAR INTO THE YEAR OF THE TIGER WITH HSBC
Tuesday, 16th February 2010

HSBC Brunei will be celebrating the Lunar New Year, Year of the Tiger with exciting lion dance performances and 'Open Houses' at all of its branches.

In this regard, HSBC would like to invite customers to join in the festivities

The traditional Lion Dance performances will be held on Wednesday, 17 February 2010 at its main branch in Bandar and its Kuala Belait branch. 

Customers are welcome to view the performances, which will be held at the times below:

- Bandar branch 10.00am
- Kuala Belait branch 2.45pm

Customers are also cordially invited to the 'Open Houses' which will be held at all of its branches on the 25 February 2010 during banking hours.

HSBC would also like to take this opportunity to wish those who celebrate this happy occasion, a very Happy and Prosperous New Year!

      HSBC OPENS FIRST HOME LOAN CENTRE
Thursday, 11th February 2010

11 February 2010, HSBC has announced the establishment of its first Home Loan Centre.

Minister of Health, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Hj Suyoi Bin Hj Osman officially opened the Home Loan Centre situated at the HSBC branch in Gadong. 

Also in attendance were Mr. Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei, Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Deputy Chief Executive Officer and Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management, Government officials and the bank's Senior Managers and staff.

This is the first Centre of its kind that caters solely for customers who are looking into financing their dream home. Geared as a one stop hub for soon to be home owners - with dedicated Home Loan specialists who are able to advise and assist customers in choosing the best solution according to their needs. 

Currently there are four specialists available in the centre, and starting 1st March, a Home Loan specialist will be made available at HSBC's Kuala Belait branch to cater for the customers in the district. 

Rosdi Amin, Deputy Chief Executive, HSBC, said, "We have seen over time that there has been an increasing trend of home ownership especially amongst our younger generation and it is befitting to have a HSBC Home Loan centre with specialists who can provide full assistance to first time home buyers." He also went on to say, "We are proud to say that we are the first bank in Brunei to have a home loan specialist centre". 

HSBC offers flexible home loans and home refinancing plans that are specially tailored to suit the needs of everyone. Be it interest free for the first year, fixed monthly repayments or reducing monthly repayments

HSBC is currently running a promotion on their home loan plans. Successful applicants will receive attractive sign-up gifts of either a one door fridge or a 32" LCD TV and subsidies up to BND 8,000.* This offer is available until 31 March 2010. Interested customers may now visit the Home Loan Centre located on the 2nd floor at HSBC's Gadong Branch.

*Terms and conditions apply.

      HSBC NAMED THE WORLD'S MOST VALUABLE BRAND AGAIN
Wednesday, 10th February 2010

For the third time running HSBC has once again been named the world's most valuable banking brand by The Banker magazine. HSBC was the only financial services brand to be ranked AAA+ with a brand value now worth US$28.5bn (GBP18bn).

Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer, HSBC Brunei, said "We are delighted that the HSBC brand remains highly valued especially after the turbulent times of the global economy. HSBC's brand actually gained value by 12 percent - a testament to our financial strength and to the commitment of our staff in upholding HSBC's long-standing values".

The Banker magazine evaluated the world's 500 most valuable banking groups on both their brand strength and value as of 31 December 2009. 

Bank of America came in second as the most valuable banking brand. 

Brand Finance released the third edition of the Global Banking 500 in association with The Banker Magazine. 

      50,000 ROYAL SKIES MILES FOR 3 HSBC CUSTOMERS
Monday, 01st February 2010

3 lucky HSBC Credit Card holders were all smiles today as HSBC has just presented them with the grand prize of 500,000 Royal Skies Miles. 

The event took place at HSBC's main branch in the Capital. On hand to present the prizes was Rosdi Amin Yaakub, Head of Retail Banking & Wealth Management and Deputy Chief Executive Officer of HSBC Brunei. Rosdi presented 500,000 Royal Skies Miles to a very happy Hibri Sarililah, Edna Irene Ang San Jose and Melina Anak Gak. 

All three customers can now redeem their royal skies miles for trips to many destinations. The prize is enough to go to London return eight times or even 25 return trips to Singapore or Kuala Lumpur. 

The lucky customers simply used their credit cards when making purchases during the promotional period that ended recently. The promotion was one of the ongoing initiatives launched by HSBC to reward its cardholders.

If you are interested to know more about HSBC products and services, simply visit the nearest HSBC branch or go on-line at www.hsbc.com.bn. 


HSBC NEWS JANUARY 2010


HSBC DOES THEIR PART FOR THE ENVIRONMENT WITH THE 13 FLEET TOYOTA PRIUS

Friday, 29th January 2010

With HSBC's long standing commitment to the environment it has come with no surprise that the chosen car for the senior managers at the world's local bank is the recently launched Toyota Prius. 

"Replacing our management car fleet with the Prius is another step towards reducing our carbon footprint. Although the Toyota Prius is not the cheapest option on the market at the moment, it is the preferred car for our management fleet because of its superior fuel efficiency. We would also like to thank our partner,Jasra for making this happen. " said Mr Tareq Muhmood, Chief Executive Officer HSBC Brunei. 

Today saw the official handover of the cars to the bank's senior managers through the car rental company Jasra Sendirian Berhad. The event took place at HSBC's Serusop Branch. 

Present for this momentous occasion were Mr. Tareq Muhmood Chief Executive Officer HSBC Brunei, Hj Mohammad representative from Jasra Harrisons and senior managers of HSBC. HSBC Brunei's new Prius cars will keep them on track towards reducing their carbon footprint and a greener Brunei. 

In conjunction with the handover and active pursuit in preserving the environment, HSBC and NBT have exclusively joined forces to offer exclusive rates for the first 10 customers who would like to drive home the hybrid synergy Toyota Prius. Interested customers can enjoy discounted rates with financing from HSBC Finance (Brunei) Berhad located at Sumbangsih Mulia in Beribi and call the office at 2 448401 to find out more details on this offer. 

The new Toyota Prius with Hybrid Synergy Drive was launch on 15 January 2010. 

      20 SHORTLISTED TEAMS PROCEED ROUND TWO
Wednesday, 27th January 2010

HSBC has just announced the top 20 teams that will proceed to round two on the HSBC Young Entrepreneur Awards (YEA) website www.asiayea.com. The shortlisted teams had submitted the best ideas and will now proceed to turn their ideas into an actual business plan. They are now one step closer to the regional finals which will be held in Kuala Lumpur this year.

The business ideas were judged based on creativity and originality and its commercial viability. Judges were from different areas in the bank that deal with small and medium enterprises (SME) and marketing on a daily basis.

"We are doing this to cultivate and inspire young people's interest in entrepreneurship, showing them that there are opportunities out there. I am sure this will be very exciting for the students as it gives them the opportunity to gain international exposure and develop their intellectual and personal strengths." says Ms Chang Ai Lee Senior Relationship Manager of HSBC Commercial Banking Department. 

The short-listed teams will all attend a business plan writing workshop this week where three engaging speakers will come in to guide the participants on how to write a business plan. The workshop will mark the start of round two. 

The prizes are attractive, with the winning team taking home a self-development fund of BND3000 plus trophies, certificates and an opportunity to compete in the regional competition in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia June this year. The regional finals will see winners from all six countries competing for the grand prize of a business development fund of HK$100,000 (est. BND20,000). 

HSBC Young Entrepreneurs Award (YEA) was launched in Brunei for the first time in January 2008. The competition, aimed at providing incentives for aspiring young entrepreneurs from local tertiary level institutions. First launched in Hong Kong in 2000, the HSBC YEA competition now runs concurrently in six other countries namely Hong Kong, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, Bangladesh and Brunei.

      HSBC BLOOD DONATION DRIVE IN KB
Tuesday, 12th January 2010

Eager to save lives, HSBC's staff, customers and even those from the general public queued up from as early as 9 in th e morning to give blood recently. About 90 people donated their blood during the Bank's first Blood Donation drive this year.

For the first time the event took place at HSBC's branch in Kuala Belait.

"We are pleasantly surprised by the number of potential blood donors queing at the bank this morning. It is the first time we have held it here in KB and we would like to specially thank the public and our customers for their support on such an important initiative. Everyone that came to donate blood today will save lives." Ms Tiam Yapp Chen, Manager HSBC Kuala Belait

HSBC organises a blood donation drive twice a year. The initiative is part of the bank's service to community by supporting the national blood bank that is in need of continuous supply of blood for treatment of serious illness and injury.

A team of medical personnel from the RIPAS Hospital's Blood Collection Unit was present throughout the whole day to assist in facilitating the campaign.

      NEW LOOK FOR HSBC'S FRONTLINE STAFF
Tuesday, 5th January 2010

HSBC's frontline staff will be starting the New Year with a refined and modern uniform. All of the staff at the bank's 11 branches will be wearing the new uniform that has been designed and specially tailored for maximum comfort.

"Enduring concerns regarding the fundamental strength of the global financial markets, as well as the uncertainties as to whether any of the economic data we have seen recently are manifestations of a self-sustainable global economic recovery ensures that gold remains a popular safe-haven investment." said Quan Lim, Assistant Manager for Premier and Wealth Management for HSBC Brunei.



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