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 and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam hosted a gathering for VIP guests on the first day of Hari Raya Aidilfitri at Istana Nurul Iman.
Minister of Transport and Infocommunications Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha were among the guests. The minister, in a brief interview with the Bulletin, noted that this year’s Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration would be particularly vibrant with Istana Nurul Iman opening its doors for the Junjung Ziarah ceremony.
He added that this tradition would undoubtedly foster greater unity and togetherness among the nation’s citizens and residents, particularly in supporting national development efforts. While celebrating the festive occasion, he emphasised that responsibilities and duties must not be neglected, as highlighted in His Majesty’s Hari Raya titah, where performing one’s duties is considered an act of worship. Those entrusted with public service responsibilities should maintain their dedication even during this festive period.
“My family and I express our deepest Junjung Kasih and extend our Hari Raya Aidilfitri greetings, with Maaf Zahir dan Batin, to His Majesty and the royal family.”
Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh remarked that His Majesty’s titah provides invaluable guidance in strengthening unity, love and harmony among the nation’s people, particularly for the younger generation and education professionals.
The minister expressed gratitude for His Majesty’s consent to revive the Hari Raya Junjung Ziarah ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman this year, noting that this cherished tradition would enhance the joyous Syawal atmosphere while reinforcing the special bond between the monarch and the people – a cornerstone of the nation’s stability and harmony.
“On behalf of all the Ministry of Education staff, I extend our most sincere Hari Raya Aidilfitri greetings to Their Majesties and the royal family as we celebrate Syawal,” she concluded. – Lyna Mohamad
