Flordeliza Roxas Dalde had to convince her mother and family members to give their blessings for her conversion to Islam. The day finally came when her mother told her, “If it makes you happy, then go ahead”
The 47-year-old Filipino said she did not want to proceed without her mother’s approval. However, she continued to learn about Islam and would share its true meaning with her mother every time they spoke.
Flordeliza arrived in Brunei to work as a teacher at a school in Kampong Kapok, Muara around six years.
Seeing her students wear the headscarf and observing their culture – especially the love and respect they showed her – further piqued her interest in Islam. She gradually adopted aspects of their culture and deepened her understanding of the religion.
A chemist by profession in the Philippines, Flordeliza took up the position of a science teacher for Years 1 to 6. Comparing her teaching experience in Brunei with that in her home country, she found that the students in Brunei were attentive and eager to learn, which encouraged her to stay longer.
She began wearing the headscarf in 2019 and started fasting during Ramadhan last year.
“When I first learned about Allah the Almighty from my students and fellow teachers, I found happiness and I never felt alone. My students were always keen to teach me new things about Islam while my colleagues encouraged me to wear the headscarf, which I feel comfortable wearing to this day.”
Coming to Brunei was the right decision for her, as it allowed her to witness the true meaning of Islam, which gradually opened her heart to embrace the faith. She expressed her admiration for Muslims who pray five times a day.
At present, aside from her basic knowledge of Islam, Flordeliza has learnt on performing ablution, guided by her students.
She is still in the process of learning how to perform prayers and is planning to follow classes to learn to read Al-Quran.
Flordeliza, chose the Muslim name Aida Florida binti Abdullah.
The conversion ceremony took place at Kampong Kapok Mosque in Jalan Muara on Friday. The ceremony began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, followed by the Syahadah guided by a Dakwah Development Officer (Conversion) from PDI. This was followed by the presentation of a welcome gift and Dikir Marhaban. The ceremony concluded with a Doa Selamat. Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Bahrin bin Mohd Noor was the guest of honour. Acting Senior Religious Officer at the Islamic Dakwah Centre (PDI) Hajah Zunainah binti Haji Gunong was also present.
From January to February 3, a total of 31 people have embraced Islam, 14 recorded from the Brunei-Muara District.
The Ministry of Religious Affairs, through the PDI continues its efforts to spread the Syiar of Islam through conversion ceremonies and support for new converts, including guidance courses on Islam. – Lyna Mohamad
