Events to enliven Regatta atmosphere

Posted date: January 27, 2013 In: Headline, National

| Aziz Idris |

THE countdown is underway as the prestigious Brunei Regatta 2013 is set to make waves on Brunei River on February 3 at the Dermaga Diraja, Bandar Seri Begawan.

This year regatta will feature a total of 12 traditional boat race events, four categories for the speed boats competition, two categories for water taxis and two events for the jet skis with a strong participation of over 1,000 paddlers and powerboat drivers hailing from around the region.

Awang Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah (C), Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, speaking during the press conference. – AZIZ IDRIS

“To enliven the atmosphere in the city centre on race-day, and as an opportunity for local enterprises to increase revenue, side activities will also be held as a ‘spinoff’ of the regatta,” said Awang Roslan bin Haji Taja’ah, Deputy Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Home Affairs, as the joint executive committee for the Brunei Regatta 2013 in a press conference held at the ministry’s building yesterday.

According to Awang Roslan, among the activities included is the showcase of the One Village One Product (SKSP) for Mukim and Village Consultative Councils of Brunei Darussalam on February 1-5 at the Central Plaza area, Complex Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Bandar Seri Begawan.

“Stalls will also be set-up along Jalan Pemancha and along Jalan Pretty starting from February 2-3. The latest edition this year will be a painting exhibition showcasing the early regattas at the Art Gallery, the Dermaga Diraja, Bandar Seri Begawan,” he noted.

Organisers welcome the public to register for the stalls by contacting 2232424 ext 309, Finance Department, BSB District Office. A minimum rental of $40 will be charged upon registration which will close on January 30.

The event yesterday also saw the handing over of posters to various ministries and the private sector.

The waterway stretching from Kianggeh to Tamoi Ujong will be cordoned off during the race day starting from 6am. Water taxis as well as boat users are reminded not to use the waterway during the event. The areas near the Dermaga Diraja BSB will also be closed off by 6am.

Road closures will also take place on race day from 6am to 6pm. The roads include Jalan McArthur, Jalan Pemancha, Jalan Pretty, Jalan Sultan and Jalan Cator.

For the convenience of the public, shuttle bus services will be provided from three locations – Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, SOAS College and the Royal Regalia.

Members of the public are welcome to witness the action the whole day. The regatta is organised to enliven Bandar Seri Begawan and promote Brunei tourism to the world. The competition has been approved to be listed in the national ‘Calendar of Events’.