Students need to uphold the Bruneian identity wherever they may be, said 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 in a titah during a get-together with citizens and residents of Brunei Darussalam currently in the United Kingdom (UK) and Eire.
Aside from actively gaining knowledge, students should emphasise that they are Bruneians, moulded by the national philosphy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB), said His Majesty.
His Majesty said the get-together is highly meaningful as it reflects the close unit established among citizens and residents of Brunei especially following the global struggle with the COVID-19 pandemic.
His Majesty expressed gratitude over the opportunity to interact and learn first-hand the developments, well-being and welfare of his subjects, particularly students pursuing their studies in the UK.
The monarch noted that students infected with the virus had mild conditions and recovered within a short period of time.
Although the students have been fully vaccinated, they are advised to be cautious and continue practising preventive measures, His Majesty added.
His Majesty expressed confidence that students will continue to persevere and be resolute and resilient in overcoming the challenges of COVID-19 that have, to some extent, impacted students in their studies. Education is the key to advancing the country’s development, as it determines the strength of a nation’s human resources, said His Majesty, adding that the government will continue to provide opportunities for students to pursue their studies through scholarship schemes.
His Majesty also highlighted that Al-Quran and religious guidance programmes have been implemented for overseas students by various agencies, so they can be adorned with faith and piety, while being equipped with a balance of duniawi and ukhrawi values.
