Bandar Seri Begawan came alive with a festive atmosphere as crowds flocked to the gerai perayaan or festive stalls in honour of 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 77th birthday celebration.
People from various backgrounds thronged to Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien and the open area opposite the Royal Regalia Museum building.
Local delicacies like sotong tutuk (hammered squid) and longans proved to be a favourite among the crowds, while children were seen playing at the field of the Taman.
Mahani, a visitor with her family of five, expressed delight at the lively atmosphere during this festive season, which will continue until the end of the month. However, she was baffled by the increased prices of food items, such as sotong tutuk now costing BND2 and longans priced at BND6 per kilogramme. – Azlan Othman
