The annual reception to mark 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 birthday hosted by the Diplomatic Corps is one of the most anticipated events of the year.
It provides an informal setting for the Diplomatic Corps to congratulate His Majesty and mingle with Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam and members of the royal family including His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar.
Malaysian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Dato’ Raja Reza bin Raja Zaib Shah said this during the reception yesterday to celebrate the monarch’s 77th birthday celebration. He expressed hope that this tradition continues.
Canadian High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Ambra Dickie said the reception coincided with her marking her first year in Brunei. There were many remarkable memories including the presentation of credential where she met His Majesty and members of the royal family for the first time.
“Hari Raya is also memorable for the opportunity to socialise and the royal wedding was also a wonderful experience. I am pleased to join the reception one year after I arrived. It is good timing to be able to meet His Majesty again as I missed the previous reception by days,” Dickie said.
She noted that she finds it interesting that everyone she met speaks highly of the monarch.
Dickie said His Majesty takes good care of the people and in Canada, it is unusual seeing leaders engaging with the public during national and birthday celebrations. “It is quite impressive seeing His Majesty engaging with the Bruneian people and diplomats closely,” she said.
“There are many things to like about Brunei, particularly the warm and friendly people. It feels like home because Canadians are also very friendly, open and warm. I miss Canada but it was softened by lovely and friendly Bruneians as well as the green and peaceful environment. It is nice to be in a big city but it is also nice to be in Brunei where it is green and quiet,” Dickie said.
Pakistan High Commissioner to Brunei Darussalam Major General (Rtd) Farhat Abbas Sani said the birthday celebration reception is the most sought after event in the diplomatic community and their families.
“His Majesty is very popular with the people and he has many remarkable qualities. What makes His Majesty’s bond stronger with the people is his loving, caring and compassionate nature,” said the high commissioner.
He said it is exciting to see national celebrations with people on the sidelines cheering and expressing their love for the monarch.
The diplomat said his time in Brunei has been exciting and he and his family find the Bruneians very loving. He said both nations share similar culture, food and religion. The high commissioner said he adapted to living in Brunei quickly and easily. “We feel that Brunei is our second home now,” he said.
The diplomat said His Majesty is popular with the Diplomatic Corps and they enjoy events such as the audience with the monarch and national celebrations such as the royal wedding.
The high commissioner concluded the interview by wishing His Majesty long life and good health. He also wished the people of Brunei peaceful and prosperous lives. He said Brunei is a wonderful place and Pakistan and the Sultanate enjoy strong bonds that are cherished. – Lyna Mohamad
