A harmonious mix of cultures drew a large crowd during a series of performances led by the Chinese and Indian communities from across the Belait District at the nightly stage performance held at the Gerai Perayaan (festive stalls) in Tudong Saji, Kuala Belait on Wednesday night.
The performance was held in conjunction with 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’s 78th birthday celebration.
The Belait District Tiong Hua Association and the Indian Association Belait led the performances, describing them as a fusion of the many cultures reflecting the heritage and traditions of the Belait District and the nation.
A total of 18 performances were held that night, with one of the highlights being the thunderous Chinese drums that reverberated across the venue, drawing the curiosity of the crowd.
Other performances included interpretive song and dance with Chinese and Indian origins, modern contemporary and fusion dance routines, as well as a mixture of Malay Nasyid and Syair performances, all serving to bridge the gap between the past and the present.
The Station Manager for the Belait District Branch of Radio Televisyen Brunei (RTB), Dayang Nur’alya Fareedah binti Haji Mohammad, was present as the guest of honour.
She was welcomed to the venue by the head of the Belait District Tiong Hua Association, Loo Soon Nin, and the head of the Indian Association Belait, Salimo. – DANIEL LIM
