This weekend promises to be unforgettable as Brunei Darussalam marks its 40th National Day celebration, culminating in a grand assembly at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium in Berakas on Saturday.
Themed ‘Bersatu Mencapai Cita Negara’ (‘United in Achieving the Nation’s Aspirations’), this year’s festivities not only showcase the patriotism of the Sultanate and its people but also symbolises the nation’s enduring resilience in overcoming various challenges throughout its history.
Amidst all of this, Brunei has remained steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding and preserving the nation’s sovereignty, security, safety, prosperity and integrity.
The theme provides a comprehensive view of the national spirit, independence and aspirations for national development, with the achievements and developments over the years laying the foundation for hopes and commitments for the future.
In line with this, the main key elements under the 40th National Day theme refers to ‘Unity’, ‘Achievement’, ‘Aspirations’ and ‘Nation’.
Unity as a nation-state underscores the importance of cohesion among leaders, society, and the people, with togetherness as the fundamental strength in facing challenges and achieving goals.
The element of ‘Achievement’ emphasises the active and continuous efforts to attain the country’s objectives and aspirations. It reflects a commitment to progress and overcoming obstacles in the journey of development, utilising knowledge and expertise, and consistently striving to improve methods and ways of moving forward, leveraging advancements in science and technology.
Meanwhile, the element of ‘Aspirations’ emphasise the significance of the nation’s ideals and aspirations in line with Brunei Vision 2035 and Zikir Nation, encompassing the values of justice, prosperity, well-being, sustainable development, and remaining blessed and protected by Allah the Almighty.
This element requires having a broad vision and thinking forward based on the values and wisdom of the Bruneian people.
Lastly, ‘Nation’ focuses on comprehensive national development, upholding the monarchy as the foundation of the state, and embracing and participating in the development process at the individual, family, community, and national levels.
The theme underscores the importance of collaborative work through the whole-of-nation approach for the progress and safety of the Sultanate, while also ensuring the preservation and upholding of the independence and sovereignty of the Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB).
To elevate the significance of this momentous national event, the new logo for the 40th National Day celebration was designed to not only honour but also the deep-seated loyalty and unwavering determination of the people of Brunei Darussalam in realising the nation’s aspirations.
The 40th National Day logo this year features a keris and dastar (a traditional dagger and headgear), symbolising the majesty, supremacy, and sovereignty of Brunei Darussalam.
These iconic and meaningful symbols in the colour yellow represent loyalty and a commitment to the monarchy.
The ‘Dastar Sapu-Sapu Aing’ is a traditional headgear worn by men, symbolising strength and leadership. The ‘Panji-Panji’ or the National Crest of Brunei Darussalam has long been a symbol of unity for the people of Brunei Darussalam.
The incorporation of both the traditional headgear and the national crest illustrates the importance of leadership, loyalty, and unity, symbolising the strength and guidance the monarchy provides.
The keris sheath in the shape of the number 40 in Jawi and Roman scripts reflects the country’s independence for 40 years. The design of the number 40 in Roman script is inspired by the Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Bridge, as a manifestation of the progress of Brunei Darussalam in its 40 years of independence under the reign of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.
Meanwhile, the Utap symbolises protection and safety, reflecting Brunei Darussalam’s commitment to safeguarding its people, in accordance with the lyrics of the national anthem: “Peace be with our country and Sultan”.
Lastly, the Pamur Keris, shaped like a three-curved helix, symbolises Brunei’s national aspiration, encapsulated in Brunei Vision 2035, which emphasises the need for unity to achieve our goals. Additionally, the colour green represents Islam as the foundation of our legal and societal principles.
As Brunei Darussalam celebrates its 40th National Day this weekend, the theme ‘Bersatu Mencapai Cita Negara’ embodies the nation’s patriotism and resilience, symbolising our unwavering commitment to safeguarding sovereignty, security, safety, prosperity, and integrity.
This celebration is not merely a commemoration of the past but also a reflection on our present and a call to action for the future.
Let us take a moment to reflect on the values that have brought us this far and rekindle our dedication to building a brighter future for Brunei Darussalam. – Rokiah Mahmud
