Lyna Mohamad
Celebrants enjoyed colourful performances by teachers and students of the Society for the Management of Autism Related issues in Training, Education and Resources (SMARTER) Brunei during its Hari Raya celebration at the SMARTER EDGE Centre in Kampong Mata-Mata.
Bangladesh High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Nahida Rahman Shumona was the guest of honour.
Also present was SMARTER Brunei President Pengiran Zamri bin Pengiran Haji Bujang, dedicated volunteer teacher Datin Rani Alexander as well as representatives from Brunei Press Sdn Bhd, HiTune Universal Services and Kong Fah.
The high commissioner said, “I am very honoured and grateful to participate in the Raya celebration of Smarter Brunei, our high commission is committed, as our country is, to be a partner to bring inclusivity and to support special education for the special children.
“Autism, to me, is not a disability; it is special ability and all the children here have talents. We need to assist them to use their talents,” she added.
The high commissioner said she believes all children should be given equal treatment and opportunity, and lauded Smarter Brunei’s work in bringing change to children’s lives, even with a limited budget. “Their work inspires us and we will continue to support them.”
Yesterday, guests visited the students’ classrooms which were brightly decorated to commemorate the festive season.
Hari Raya packets for the students were also distributed by Kong Fah and HiTune, while refreshments were provided by Brunei Press and
HiTune, along with additional food from SMARTER friends and family.
