A 71-year-old Iban man officially began his new life journey as a Muslim after reciting the Syahadah at a conversion ceremony at his residence in Kampong Penabai, Tutong District yesterday.
The ceremony began with the recitation of Sayyidul Istighfar and Surah Al-Fatihah followed by Gending anak Siba’s recitation of the Syahadah. He chose the Muslim name Muhammad Gending bin Muhammad Shah.
The event was further enlivened with a Dikir Marhaban and the sprinkling of scented flowers on the new convert.
Legislative Council member Yang Berhormat Abdul Aziz bin Haji Hamdan, as Kampong Sengkarai Village Head, was the guest of honour. Acting Tutong District Officer Awangku Arif Anuar bin Pengiran Haji Ahmad as well as Kampong Penabai and Kampong Kuala Tutong Village Head Muhammad Sofiyuddin bin Md Serudin were also present. The guest of honour presented a souvenir from the Islamic Da’wah Centre (PDI).
According to PDI statistics, 294 people converted to Islam in Brunei from January to November. – Lyna Mohamad
