Temburong residents expressed their delight in being able to showcase their activities and cultures to 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 during the get-together in conjunction with the monarch’s 78th birthday celebration.
Individuals, communities and groups from all walks of life, including people with disabilities, senior citizens, association members, religious groups and grassroots communities were able to meet with His Majesty and share with the monarch part of their activities and cultural heritage.
Deputy president of the Lun Bawang Association in Temburong Mariam binti Ulat said they were showcasing a dance to welcome guests, a harvest dance, their bamboo flute band and padi grinding as well as demonstrating the use of blowpipes.
Chairman of the Martial Arts Association in Temburong Ampuan Mohd Ruhaifi bin Haji Abu Bakar said their showcase comprised demonstration of silat with sword and shield as well an exhibition of medals, prizes and equipment used in international competitions.
Meanwhile, the Temburong Scouts Association held an exhibition of scouts activities, said scout leader Azrin Hassan.
Managing Director of the Centre for Children with Special Needs Haji Abdul Alim bin Haji Othman said their exhibit highlighted their activities inside and outside the classroom.
Meanwhile, the Sultan Hassan Secondary School showcased their student choir. One of the students, Alysha Sakhira anak Johari said over 30 students were involved in the choir.
She said it was also her second time taking part in the field performance. “We rehearsed for 11 days,” she added.
President of the Retired Personnel of the Royal Brunei Police Force Association (POLSARA) Haji Yahya bin Haji Ibrahim said retired women personnel took part in the district’s get-together for the first time.
He said the occasion was eagerly-awaited by residents in Temburong, and that the warm reception reflected His Majesty’s care for his subjects. – Azlan Othman
