As the country prepares for the 40th National Day celebration on Saturday, the Bulletin caught up with the public who shared their thoughts on the upcoming festivities.
Shamsul Azren bin Haji Mohd Said, who works in the private sector expressed gratitude for the rapid development of the country since its independence, such as policies and initiatives to develop sectors outside of oil and gas including agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and finance.
“There are also developments in the food sector, leveraging the conveniences of mobile applications as well as upgrades in basic facilities such as health and transportation,” he added, saying he looks forward to seeing further developments including in technology and businesses.
Meanwhile, retired teacher and committee member of the Brunei Malay Teachers Association (PGGMB) Haji Yahya bin Haji Mirasan touched on the development of education.
The shift from traditional, blackboard-based teaching to digitally-enhanced learning has been evident in the last 10 years, signalling a transformation in education.
“Technological advancement will shape the future of education in the country,” he believed.
Meanwhile, Vice President I of Kampong Lambak Youth Association (PERBEKAL) Siti Seriana binti Haji Md Yusof, said National Day is a celebration of perjuangan, or the sacrifices and hardships towards the necessary change and rights, and is a “heritage from our ancestors prior to the independence”.
Siti Seriana, who is also the chairperson of the association’s women bureau, expressed disappointment that these values are not well-received by today’s youth and wonders if the young generation is taught to understand the true meaning of a country’s independence.
Nonetheless, she expressed hopes to see more people acknowledge their ancestors in helping the country achieve independence.
“There is need to be enlightened on these sacrifices as the youth are our future leaders.
“They need to have a strong mindset, to ensure that there is a widespread appreciation of National Day beyond celebration.” – Lyna Mohamad
