Thousands of Tutong District residents and citizens from all walks of life gathered on Tuesday to celebrate the 78th birthday of 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 a get-together at the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex field.
His Majesty was accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.
Upon arrival at the Tutong helipad, His Majesty and the royal family were warmly welcomed by Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office and Minister of Defence II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Mohd Yussof; Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman and Minister of Education Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh.
The royal entourage then proceeded to the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex field in a motorcade, greeted by schoolchildren waving miniature national flags along the route.
Tutong District had the honor of hosting the first get-together ceremony of the year, showcasing its rich cultural heritage through a special performance themed “Raja Berdaulat Kesayangan Rakyat,” celebrating a beloved king who leads with faith and piety.
The performance was divided into two segments: The first featured a musical drama folk tale about villagers’ adventures and sacrifices to meet their beloved king, filled with drama, song, and dance. The grand finale, the second segment, saw all 340 performers, including youths and students, singing the theme song as a tribute to His Majesty.
After the performance, His Majesty and the royal family met with the performers and toured various booths, where they were greeted by the people including senior citizens, uniformed personnel, cadets, villagers, and representatives of NGOs, associations, and private companies.
The event concluded with a luncheon and cake-cutting ceremony in the main hall of the Tutong District Civic Centre Complex.
The next get-together ceremony will be held in Temburong District on July 25. – JAMES KON
