Over 450 members, along with friends and families from across Belait District and beyond, gathered at Pusat Insani, Seria on November 23 to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the Hainan Association Kuala Belait.
The Chargé d’Affaires of the Embassy of China in Brunei Darussalam Wang Haitao, attended the celebration as the guest of honour.
He was welcomed by Chairman of the Hainan Association Kuala Belait Raymond Hong along with special guests from regional Hainan Associations and supporters. In his opening speech, Raymond highlighted the significance of the association’s 85th anniversary, stating, “Time flies, and looking back, we have faced many challenges over the years.”
He also recalled the completion of the association’s eight-storey building in Kuala Belait, a key milestone in recent years.
Wang Haitao expressed his admiration for the association’s rich history, praising its role in providing a space for its members to gather, celebrate their culture, and engage with the wider Belait community.
Raymond emphasised that the celebration was not only to mark the association’s anniversary but also to honour the elderly members.
A ribbon and cake-cutting ceremony was held, followed by the presentation of a token of appreciation to the guest of honour.
The association also exchanged commemorative tokens with invited groups from within Brunei, Sabah, and Sarawak.
The evening featured long service awards presented to committee members as well as gifts for some of the association’s oldest members.
Performances and lucky draws were also part of the celebration, accompanied by dinner. – Daniel Lim
