James Kon
Some BND29,500 was raised at a private charity auction for Pusat Ehsan Al-Ameerah Al-Hajjah Maryam hosted by United States (US) Embassy in Brunei Darussalam.
The funds will be used to support Pusat Ehsan’s mission to train, assist and care for individuals with special needs to help them achieve their full potential in society.
According to a press release, much of the money will be used to construct a new school for special needs students.
Her Royal Highness Princess Fadzilah Lubabul Bolkiah was the guest of honour at the event hosted at US Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Caryn McClelland’s residence.
Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Suami Abdullah Nabil Mahmoud Al-Hashimi and Datin Paduka Seri Dayang Hajah Mariam binti Haji Abdul Aziz, the Patron of Pusat Ehsan were also present.
The auction showcased portraits signed by 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, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen as well as paintings by Pusat Ehsan’s students.
Attendees also bid on a polo cap signed by His Majesty, a limited-edition box set of the documentary film Prince Azim: Son of the Arts and a mosaic art of Eiffel Tower made of micro beads.
McClelland affirmed the US’ commitment to advancing empowerment, dignity, and equal rights for people with different abilities.
She noted the success of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) signed in 1990, which continues to protect the rights of people with different abilities from discrimination.
“We believe that all people deserve full and equal access to all society’s opportunities,” she said.
The charity auction was organised before the United Nations’ International Day of Persons with Disabilities and after the US holiday of Thanksgiving. The ambassador said, “Today, in particular, I am thankful for the people of Brunei who are such generous hosts and partners.”
