For Mohd Harun bin Adi, witnessing Brunei Darussalam’s independence was a moment of triumph and gratitude. He recalls the pride of seeing the nation stand on its own, with the monarch leading the country toward prosperity, peace and freedom.
“Development flourished after independence,” he said, noting the establishment of government complexes, improved infrastructure, and the dedication of Cabinet ministers and public servants in shaping the nation’s progress.
Having just started his career as a public servant when Brunei celebrated its first National Day, he recalled the colourful and meaningful celebration at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.
Haji Mohd Amir bin Haji Aziz, who was in his senior years of schooling when Brunei gained independence, still remembers the overwhelming pride he felt as a citizen. He expressed deep gratitude to Allah the Almighty for the country’s freedom – not only from foreign administration but also for the ability to uphold Islam as the nation’s official religion.
“As a nation guided by the principles of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), I hope the people of Brunei will always be grateful for the blessings of independence and continue to support the country’s development,” he said.
For Skip Rostini binti Major (Rtd) Haji Suhaili, her memories of Brunei’s first National Day are tied to her late father, who played a key role in the celebration.
“My late father was a military officer in the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, and he was assigned to lead the parade. I remember the presence of many heads of state, including King Charles III, who was then Prince Charles. My father was also among the officials tasked with escorting the heads of state,” she shared.
As a child, she missed the opportunity to witness the historic event in person, as her father’s duties kept him occupied. Instead, she watched the live broadcast on television, feeling a surge of excitement every time she spotted him on screen. She also recalls the brief moments when he returned home to freshen up before heading out again to continue his duties.
To Skip Rostini, independence is not just about freedom but also about solidarity among citizens in preserving peace and prosperity under the leadership of the monarch.
Her involvement in National Day celebrations began when she joined the scout movement 13 years ago, and she remains committed to participating in the festivities each year.
Meanwhile, Siti Aqilah binti Haji Mohd Baizuri, who was born after Brunei’s independence, gradually came to understand its significance through her school years.
“As I grew older, I realised why Bruneians take great pride in independence,” she said.
Her appreciation deepened as she actively participated in National Day celebrations from her secondary school years through college.
“To me, independence means being free from foreign control, with our country governed under the wise leadership of the monarch. As citizens, we are fortunate to enjoy the benefits of independence, including continuous national development, especially in infrastructure,” she added.
Haji Zul-Hilmi bin Haji Lakat shared a similar sense of gratitude whenever Brunei celebrates its National Day, recognising it as a testament to the nation’s journey toward self-governance.
“Alhamdulillah, as a citizen, freedom means that we, as a nation, can enact laws that suit our people’s needs, whether in education, social harmony or overall welfare,” he said.
Although he was just a toddler when Brunei gained independence, he grew to appreciate its true meaning during his secondary school years.
For Zaerah, who was just eight years old when the independence declaration was made, her earliest memory is of watching the live telecast from the capital. Though young at the time, she now fully understands the weight of that historic moment and the responsibility that comes with preserving Brunei’s sovereignty.
“National Day is about understanding the value of independence and the responsibility of safeguarding it to ensure that Brunei remains prosperous and peaceful forever.” – Lyna Mohamad
