With a caring and devoted monarch, Brunei Darussalam has always been a community-driven nation, providing benefits and facilities that ensure its citizens are never left hungry, enjoy good health, receive quality education, and have access to shelter, a high standard of living, and world-class healthcare.
The sense of gratitude and privilege that accompanies Bruneian citizenship was palpable at the 41st Brunei Citizenship Certificate Presentation Ceremony, held at Chancellor Hall, Universiti Brunei Darussalam on Tuesday.
Following this life-changing event, several recipients shared their heartfelt joy and unwavering loyalty to the nation.
Among them was 49-year-old Norcahya Saidin, who expressed her gratitude and determination to contribute to the country.
“I am really happy today to officially be a Brunei citizen because it is not easy to be granted citizenship.
“I feel blessed, and I would also like to thank 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 for granting me Brunei citizenship,” she said.
Similarly, Sunita Kaur, another recipient, expressed her deep sense of gratitude.
“I was born in Brunei, and since I was young, I have always considered myself Bruneian at heart, though I lacked citizenship. Today, I have officially become a Brunei citizen. I feel blessed and honoured. I can now happily say that I am officially Bruneian,” she shared.
Sunita expressed her heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty and the government for granting citizenship to all the recipients.
Reflecting on her aspirations to contribute to the nation, the 60-year-old, who currently runs an education consultancy business, provides advice and guidance to local students aspiring to study abroad.
“I am proud to be part of the process of offering opportunities to students who return to Brunei and contribute to the country. Being involved in this journey is both special and a privilege.”
Haji Md Haja Najmuddin bin Haji Maideen, another successful entrepreneur, also expressed his gratitude.
“This is a huge honour for me and my family. I will continue to uphold the national philosophy of Melayu Islam Beraja (MIB) and pledge to be a loyal citizen who preserves Malay traditions, practises Islam, and respects the royal institution,” he said.
Discussing his contributions to Brunei, Haji Md Haja Najmuddin, a former teacher who retired in 2020, shared that he has since opened several businesses that employ around 60 locals.
“I hope to continue creating job opportunities for Bruneians and engaging in volunteer activities to support the well-being of the people and the nation.”
Another recipient, 44-year-old Siti Zurairah Noraini binti Haji Jonaidie, expressed her determination to contribute to the country’s progress and pledged her loyalty to His Majesty and the nation.
“I feel blessed and privileged to become a citizen. I would like to thank His Majesty for granting me Brunei citizenship,” she said, describing her immense joy at this milestone. She also committed to supporting the realisation of Brunei Vision 2035.
The stories shared by these new citizens reveal genuine gratitude and a deep desire to give back to the nation. Each of their contributions strengthens Brunei’s sense of community, reflecting a shared spirit of unity and belonging. – James Kon
