Brunei Darussalam is set to mark its annual Islamic celebrations and the National Adult Quran Recitation Competition with a well-organised and meaningful approach following a high-level committee meeting held on Wednesday.
The meeting, chaired by Minister of Religious Affairs Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, took place at the Muzakarah Hall of the International Convention Centre in Berakas.
Discussions focused on preparations for national Islamic celebrations throughout the Islamic year 1447 Hijrah, including the Islamic New Year (1st Muharram), Maulidur Rasul, the Special Women’s Gathering in conjunction with Maulidur Rasul, and Nuzul Al-Quran. The committee also deliberated on the final round of the National Adult Quran Recitation Competition.
The agenda covered proposals for themes, dates, venues, key organisers, and main events for each celebration. The appointment of committee members, including the High-Level Steering Committee, Action Committee, and Working Committee, was also discussed to ensure the smooth execution of these religious programs.
In his remarks, the Minister of Religious Affairs emphasised the importance of consistency in organising such events, noting that while these celebrations are annual routines, their impact reinforces Islam as the official religion of the nation. He highlighted the role of these events in deepening religious understanding and practice, aligning with Brunei’s commitment to a balanced and harmonious Islamic way of life.
The meeting was attended by senior officials, including Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof, State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Dr Ustaz Haji Abdul Aziz bin Juned, and Chief Syar’ie Judge Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Salim bin Haji Besar.
As in previous years, Brunei’s Islamic celebrations will be observed nationwide, involving various ministries, departments, mosques, and religious halls. The committee aims for a more structured and enriching celebration to instill love for Islam and strengthen the faith of the Muslim community in Brunei Darussalam. – Fadley Faisal
