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, on Saturday graced the 21st annual Hari Raya Aidilfitri gathering hosted by Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah at the International Convention Centre.
Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, His Royal Highness Prince Haji ‘Abdul Malik and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah.
The event continues Yayasan’s tradition since 2003 of bringing together individuals from various sectors to foster closer ties with the beloved monarch and strengthen national unity.
This year’s celebration carries the theme “Community Unity in Achieving National Aspirations”, reflecting Yayasan’s commitment to promoting collaboration, harmony and inclusivity across all levels of society in support of Brunei Vision 2035.
His Majesty’s presence at the event underscored the monarch’s close relationship with the people, as well as a deep appreciation for those playing significant roles in religious, economic and social development. The gathering featured three highlighted groups: grassroots community leaders, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs), and non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and private sector bodies involved in rehabilitation and socio-economic support programmes.
These groups are recognised for their efforts in improving quality of life, enhancing resilience and fostering inclusive national development.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah and Doa Selamat led by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Dr Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned. This was followed by welcoming remarks from 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 in his capacity as Chairman of Yayasan’s Board of Directors.
A video presentation titled “Community Unity in Achieving National Aspirations” showcased the engagement of various community groups in voluntary, social and capacity-building initiatives under a whole-of-nation approach towards achieving Brunei Vision 2035.
Also enlivening the event was a stage performance by students of Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah School, featuring children from its kindergarten, primary and secondary sections under the guidance of their educators.
This year’s gathering also featured a special exhibition with the participation of 20 agencies from the government, private and non-governmental sectors. The exhibition highlighted initiatives and programmes supporting social unity and national development through community outreach, social enterprises, education, counselling and technological innovation.
Their collaborative efforts reflect the importance of synergy among all sectors in realising the country’s aspirations.
His Majesty and members of the royal family later mingled with the participants, offering a cherished opportunity for personal interaction with the royal family. The event is also seen as an inspiration for participants to continue contributing meaningfully to society. – Fadley Faisal
