The grandeur of Hari Raya Aidilfitri in Brunei Darussalam is never in doubt, but the first day’s open house for VIPs at Istana Nurul Iman this year was truly a sight to behold.
The Banquet Hall came alive in a flourish of colour – guests dressed in their festive best, vibrant floral arrangements, the soft glow of lights and the striking centrepiece: a replica of the iconic Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Mosque.
It was not just a feast for the eyes – lavish dishes awaited the special guests, alongside the warm hospitality Brunei is known for.
Among the distinguished attendees were members of the diplomatic corps, many experiencing their first Hari Raya in Brunei.
For these envoys, the event was not only a cultural experience but a heartfelt gesture of unity from His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Royal Family.
“It was truly an honour to witness Brunei’s deep-rooted traditions and the bond between the monarchy and the people,” said Ambassador of Iran to Brunei Darussalam Mohammad Taghi Rajabi. “Raya here is filled with warmth, generosity and a deep sense of community.
What’s unique is how it brings everyone together – locals and expatriates alike.”
In Iran, he shared, Hari Raya Aidilfitri begins with morning prayers, followed by family visits and meals. “People also visit the graves of loved ones – a spiritual gesture of remembrance,” he said, noting the similar values both nations uphold: faith, gratitude and giving back.
“Brunei’s peacefulness, hospitality and commitment to cultural values make it truly special,” he added. “I’m grateful to be part of this beautiful tradition.”
Ambassador of France to Brunei Darussalam Eve Lubin was equally touched by the openness of the celebration. “It was a happy occasion,” she said.
“Everyone seemed so relaxed and friendly. I was especially impressed by the open house culture – it requires so much preparation, yet everything feels effortless.”
In France, Raya tends to be more private, with family meals and, in rural areas, traditional dishes like mechoui – whole roasted lamb.
“Even non-Muslims enjoy it for big gatherings,” she said, adding that her family has embraced life in Brunei. “It’s clean, safe and full of nature. My kids love seeing animals in the garden.
I hope Brunei continues to preserve this incredible natural heritage.”
Australian High Commissioner-designate Michael Neil Hoy highlighted the celebration’s broader meaning: “His Majesty and Her Majesty’s invitation to the international community is a powerful gesture of interfaith understanding – something the world needs now more than ever.”
He was moved by the dedication he witnessed during Ramadhan – Bruneians fasting, praying and giving to charity. “These acts make Raya truly meaningful. Compassion, justice and selflessness are values Australians also hold dear.”
In Australia, over 800,000 Muslims mark Raya each year.
“Brunei and Australia are learning from each other,” he noted, referencing cultural exchanges such as recent visits by MasterChef finalist Amina Elshafei and Airforce Islamic Chaplain Abdul Kader.
Japanese Ambassador-designate Kikuta Yutaka expressed deep appreciation for being invited to such a prestigious celebration. “It’s an honour to serve in Brunei, where people value relationships and kindness,” he said.
“I’ve found Bruneians to be genuinely friendly, living peacefully among rich traditions, nature and culture. Every day brings something new.”
Korean Ambassador-designate Sun Nahmkook echoed similar sentiments. “This is my first time celebrating Raya with Their Majesties. It’s been an incredibly memorable experience,” he said.
“Throughout Ramadhan, I saw many stories of generosity – from shared meals to personal gifts from His Majesty to orphans and those in need. It was touching and inspiring.”
Although Raya is not celebrated in Korea, he drew parallels with Korean holidays like New Year’s Day and the Full Moon Festival, both of which bring families together for food and reflection. “Brunei truly lives up to its name, ‘Abode of Peace.’ There is harmony in every corner.”
He was also heartened by the active role of women in society and the strong presence of Korean culture in Brunei – from K-dramas to cosmetics. “It shows Brunei’s openness to the world,” he said.
For Pakistani High Commissioner-designate Janbaz Khan, Raya in Brunei marked a personal milestone. “It was my first Eid here, and I was struck by the heartfelt gesture of His Majesty sharing the celebration with the people. It speaks volumes about the unity and compassion that define Bruneian culture.”
He noted that in Pakistan, Raya is equally festive – mosques filled with prayers, families gathering and homes echoing with laughter.
“But what stands out in Brunei is the month-long sense of togetherness. The celebrations spill into communities, embracing friends, colleagues and even strangers.”
He praised Brunei’s harmony between modernity and tradition and the genuine warmth of its people. “This Raya has reinforced the deep friendship between Brunei and Pakistan. I hope this spirit continues to flourish.”
As the envoys shared their reflections, one theme resonated clearly: Brunei’s Hari Raya is more than a celebration – it’s an embodiment of unity, gratitude and cultural kinship that transcends borders.
From personal memories to shared meals, the Hari Raya Aidilfitri open house at Istana Nurul Iman offered the world a glimpse of Brunei’s heart – steadfast in tradition, generous in spirit and gracefully welcoming to all who enter its royal doors. – Lyna Mohamad
