Adib Noor
Muhammad Abdul Wafi bin Haji Sofian, 21, stood proud as the young patriot led 3,800 participants in the recitation of the National Day oath at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital as part of the 38th National Day celebration on Wednesday.
“It was truly an honour to lead the oath recitation this year. I can’t begin to express how I truly felt, especially being the youngest to be chosen and being a part of the history of our beloved country’s annual celebration,” said Muhammad Abdul Wafi.
The youngster, who has been a part of COVID-19 Youth Volunteer for two years, admitted that he felt the pressure, as there was a major responsibility placed on his shoulders.
“It was not easy. However, it was a great responsibility because we made a promise to our nation, in front of our monarch,” he said, adding that “I believe anyone would feel honoured to be selected to lead the oath recitation”.
Muhammad Abdul Wafi also expressed his appreciation to his parents for their encouragement and his coaches for the guidance during training.
He also said the youth’s participation in various programmes, such as volunteering to join the fight against COVID-19 inspired him during the recitation of the National Day oath.
On this year’s National Day theme, ‘Accomplishing the National Vision’, he said, “It called for every citizen and resident, as well as industry instrumental in the nation’s growth, has a role to play in ensuring the success of Brunei Vision 2035.”
Muhammad Abdul Wafi also expressed hope that his memorable and historical moment will inspire other youth to serve the country. “Even at a young age, we can lead or be a part of something beneficial for the country,” he said.
Meanwhile, Green Brunei held its third ‘Our Bandar Free from Plastic Bottle’ campaign, with support from Brunei Shell Petroleum Company Sdn Bhd (BSP), during the National Day celebration in the capital.
Four water dispenser stations were placed along the parade route, visited by 735 individuals. Around 769 recyclable cups were also used.
The initiative aimed to reduce the use of plastic bottles during the celebration and support the plastic bottle-free initiative launched by the Department of Environment Parks and Recreation (JASTRe), Ministry of Development (MoD) in June 2018, in conjunction with World Environment Day.
It also supported the Green Protocol, launched by the MoD on January 30, 2021.
