Former participants of the Ship for Southeast Asian and Japanese Youth Programme (SSEAYP) recently had their 11th reunion at a hotel in Kampong Kiulap, marking friendships forged since their journey in 1989.
The Sultanate was selected as the host country for this year’s reunion, from September 28 to October 1.
Nearly 60 former participants gathered to relive memories and strengthen bonds.
The event also featured a presentation of certificates of appreciation to the organising committee and BPY 89 by SANGYAW, the SSEAYP 1989 Goodwill Ambassador from the Philippines, in recognition of their dedication and contribution as the host country’s organising committee for the 35th anniversary of SSEAYP 1989.
Former national leaders of Brunei Hajah Mordiah binti Haji Jackia and Hajah Jainah binti Haji Kaderi, who chaired this year’s event, delivered speeches during the reunion.
The celebration continued with a cake-cutting ceremony, games, gift exchanges and a birthday surprise aboard a cruise for participants born in September.
The highlight of the reunion was ‘Nostalgia Jejak Kasih’, which allowed participants to reconnect with their former foster parents in the Sultanate, many of whom they had not seen since the programme 35 years ago.
The annual reunion has become a tradition, with this year marking the 11th edition, with last year’s reunion was held in Jogja, Indonesia. – Rokiah Mahmud
