Residents continue to reflect on the National Day celebration, cherishing memories and the country’s progress towards a prosperous future
Less than a month has passed since the Sultanate celebrated a significant milestone. Even as time moves forward, many residents continue to hold the 40th anniversary of independence in their thoughts, reflecting on our national history and the roles we play in steering our country toward progress.
“Time really flies. I didn’t truly feel the passage of time until I realised we are reaching our 40 years of independence.
“Alhamdulillah, throughout these 40 years, we have been able to live prosperously and peacefully under the wise leadership of our beloved monarch,” said Mohd Nasihin, who could only watch the celebration live on television.
Indeed, it was markedly different from what he had experienced in previous years, especially in the wake of the global pandemic that affected both the country and the world.
Not only did it return to the original venue of the National Day celebrations in 1984, diverging from the customary Taman Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (SOAS), but it also stood out as a spectacular event, one that would be remembered for many years to come.
“I noticed changes in almost everything; from decorations, renovations, and colourful lights at the national stadium to the vibrant performances by the patriotic and enthusiastic participants that made the event more lively and joyous.”
Everyone persevered through the day’s unpredictable weather, which began with a morning shower and eventually gave way to sunshine.
Despite the onset of sudden humidity, participants pressed on, particularly those on the field. They successfully fulfilled their roles, demonstrating remarkable dedication by waking early and enduring the heat with unwavering patriotic fervour.
Mohd Nasihin, unable to secure a ticket, missed attending the national stadium celebration in person but remained deeply proud while watching the live broadcast, his patriotism unwavering.
Reflecting on the nation’s progress, he highlighted significant advancements, particularly pointing to the Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (SHOAS) Bridge as a symbol of unity.
This bridge, he noted, transformed access to the Temburong District, which was previously reachable only by river or via the neighbouring Limbang, marking a pivotal moment in the nation’s development.
“Hence, the word ‘bersatu’ in our National Day theme is relevant – we unite with our fellow Bruneians across the river through the construction of the bridge, a significant development and milestone, as it is the longest bridge in Southeast Asia.”
Looking ahead, he hoped for more successful economic developments, recognising the sector’s challenges not only for Brunei but also for other countries. With just ten years left until 2035, the nation is counting down to achieve the Brunei Vision 2035.
“May the year 2035 bring us the successful achievement of our vision, offering stability, success, abundant opportunities, enhanced skills and the best possible life.”
Speaking on behalf of her fellow team members of the Control Room and Operation team onboard the Champion platform, Melissa Catherina Boyd shared that although they did not manage to get tickets due to being offshore during the distribution, it did not dampen their spirits from following the celebration from home.
“While it may not be the same as being there physically, watching the live telecast made me feel the patriotic atmosphere at the stadium,” she shared.
For Melissa, the highlight was the performance by members of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, particularly the symbolic act of a policeman walking and saluting as the national flag was hoisted by other field participants.
“I was amazed and touched by how well our army boys performed. Kudos to them for a superb show, and the presence of the young children executing their performances with innocence and pride added to the enjoyment of the spectators,” Melissa said.
Flexing with pride, she and her team posed with the national flag at their workstation on Champion 7 just days before National Day.
They expressed their hope to continue giving back to the country as a way of saying “thank you” for all the privileges they have enjoyed.
“At the same time, we hope to see more youth joining the oil and gas industry to maintain the priority of locals in the system. More newcomers mean more ideas and input to bring about positive changes and improve in so many ways,” said the team.
Meanwhile, Khairul Salleh was among the thousands of participants involved in the big event, taking part in the parade as a member of the Brunei Darussalam Scouts Association.
“It brings back fond memories of when I was just a young kid back then. Like other young children, we were pretty excited when the National Day mass parade happened.”
Khairul is no stranger to participating in the event; he never missed a single celebration since he started being involved during his school years.
He described those years as the most memorable, sharing them with his schoolmates. Despite the exhaustion from numerous practices and rehearsals leading up to the event, everyone remained full of spirit on the actual day.
In recent years, Khairul’s participation has been limited to the marching parade as a scout member. Nevertheless, he takes pride in being there with a patriotic spirit, especially in the recent celebration marking the country’s 40th independence. The spirit is even stronger as this was the venue of the first celebration 40 years ago.
For school student Hafiz, fully participating in the event is a first. Previously, his involvement was limited to waving flags by the roadside or participating in the march past.
This year, he and his schoolmates were thrilled to learn they would be involved in the 40th anniversary celebration. “The feeling is totally different, especially because it is held at a much more spacious venue. I did not expect to feel such a strong sense of patriotism inside me during the usual practices.
“However, during our first rehearsal at the stadium, watching everyone practice hard to make the event a successful celebration of 40 years of independence, I was overwhelmed with a strong sense of patriotism.”
Hafiz and his friends hope for future opportunities to be involved and eagerly anticipate the golden jubilee anniversary. They are confident it will be another grand and unique showcase, and they look forward to being part of that celebration. – Lyna Mohamad
