Bandar Seri Begawan - A revolutionary online site, www.SocialDeal.com.bn, that offers weekly deals for products and services in Brunei is a new way for locals to save up by tapping on collective buying power. It offers group discounts for some of the coolest things to see, do and taste in the country at up to 90 per cent off original prices, according to a press release.

The catch is simple - a minimum number of customers have to buy in for a deal to go through. Hence, every so often, SocialDeal fans can be seen sharing offers on social networking site Facebook.

Considering that the site leverages on the power of mass purchases, it is reasonable that discounts are only activated upon reaching the minimum number of purchases.

Recent deals include $88 for three months of gym membership at Trufitness Gym (worth $150), $7.50 for $13 worth of Bento sets at Misato Japanese Restaurant and $50 for a professional perm-colour-cut package at Zig Zag Hair and Beauty Salon. Such deals are just too good to pass!

The concept was recognised for its innovation and ability to create viral bli7z. It has been awarded the second prize for Brunei ICT Awards 2011 organised by AITI and InfoCom Federation Brunei. The company behind the site, SocialBuzz, Advertising, is also currently an incubatee at the iCentre, BEDB.

To date, after six months in operation, the site has saved over $74,000 for Bruneians and has built up a loyal following of almost 16,000 on their Facebook page, 'SocialDeal Brunei'.

The website is comprehensive and easily navigable - payments can be made by Visa and Mastercard through PayPal (you don't even need a PayPal account). In addition, non-card users can opt for a bank transfer payment method to get the e-coupons mailed to them.