In a spectacular display of national pride, citizens gathered at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday to celebrate 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’s 78th birthday.
The event was marked by a vibrant parade, with participants expressing their deep sense of patriotism and love for their country and monarch.
National Service Programme alumna Sabrina binti Haji Mahmud, who now serves as a legal counsel and prosecuting officer at the Attorney General’s Chambers, said, “I feel happy and proud to be in the parade today under PKBN, expressing our endless sense of patriotism and love to commemorate our beloved monarch’s 78th birthday.
“I would like to express my sincerest gratitude to our beloved monarch and the Government of His Majesty for everything that we have been provided with. May Allah the Almighty’s blessings, protection and guidance always be with His Majesty and the whole nation”.
Joining the chorus of well-wishers was Hanis Jasmine binti Haji Zaini, representing the Brunei Darussalam Red Crescent Society. As an education officer at Sayyidina Hasan Secondary School, Hanis Jasmine extended her heartfelt wishes.
Members of the public and tourists also gathered to witness the grand parade. Kristen Lagman, who was at the parade with her friends, said, “We are from the Philippines and are in the Sultanate to witness His Majesty’s grand celebration.
“We are eager to get a glimpse of His Majesty and also His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.”
The tourists also shared that they are eager to experience the gerai perayaan in the capital in conjunction with His Majesty’s birthday celebration.
Local Waqiuddin bin Haji Abdul Rajak, in an interview, said, “I am here with my friend to check out the crowd and the atmosphere at the Taman for His Majesty’s birthday celebration.”
He added, “It was raining heavily last night but Alhamdulillah the field looks good this morning and we are eager to see the parade.”
Meanwhile, local Mohd Nurul Ikwan@ Shawal bin Noor said, “I am here with my son to watch the parade. My wife is in the military and is taking part in the parade.”
He also shared that it is an event that his family look forward to every year.
This year, his son Zafri was geared up with his camera to catch moments of his mother during the grand parade.
The parade, featuring various groups and organisations, underscored the unity and loyalty of the people of the nation. – Fadley Faisal & Adib Noor
