The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Dato Seri Setia Haji Awang Nazmi bin Haji Awang Mohammad, urged Brunei’s youth delegates participating in the 48th Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Program (SSEAYP) to uphold Brunei’s honour by adhering to the principles of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), which form the foundation of the national identity.
“Always remember the values of Islam, our cultural traditions, and loyalty to the monarchy. These symbolise the stability and well-being of our nation,” said the minister during the national flag handover ceremony, held on Thursday at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium’s VIP Room.
He highlighted that as young leaders, the youth participants carry a vision for a better future, not only for themselves but also for Brunei Darussalam.
Also present at the ceremony were the Japanese Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam, MAEDA Toru, and the Permanent Secretary (Culture) and Acting Permanent Secretary (Youth), MCYS, Pengiran Haji Mohd Hasnan bin Pengiran Haji Ali Hassan.
“This program is a crucial initiative for building networks of friendship among regional youth, promoting unity, harmony, and understanding among Southeast Asian nations and Japan,” the minister said.
He encouraged the youth to embrace the responsibility of representing Brunei, keeping in mind that wisdom and knowledge hold greater value when coupled with humility and respect for others. He advised them to approach challenges with an open mind and transform each experience into a learning opportunity.
“It is my sincere hope that, upon your return, you bring valuable knowledge, skills, and experiences, along with a renewed spirit to contribute to Brunei’s progress, inspiring other youth to be knowledgeable, morally upright, and dedicated to the nation.”
The event included a recital of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat, followed by remarks from the minister and the national flag handover to Head of the Brunei Contingent, Syed Abdul Muiz bin Haji Syed Anayatullah Shah, a Youth and Sports officer. Japanese Ambassador MAEDA Toru also presented air tickets to the contingent leader. Youth Leader Mohammad Azid bin Haji Mohd Sambas then led the SSEAYP participants in reading an oath.
Brunei’s contingent of 15 youth, aged 18 to 33, will participate in discussions on six key topics: Soft Power and Youth Diplomacy, Economic Growth and Sustainable Community, Global Environment and Climate Change, Disaster Risk Reduction, Good Health and Well-being, and Digital Society.
SSEAYP 2024, which promotes friendship and international cooperation among Japanese and ASEAN youth, will take place from November 4 to December 11, 2024, starting in Tokyo and making stops in Vietnam, Indonesia, and other ASEAN nations before returning to Japan. – LYNA MOHAMMAD
