Rokiah Mahmud
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 yesterday called on the youth to shape themselves into responsible, progressive and empowered citizens.
As the future generation of the Sultanate, the monarch said, youths that have been recognised for their leadership must prove to possess vision, knowledge and creativity instead of focussing on the aspects of life that have no meaning.
In the titah during the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah’s Hari Raya celebration at International Convention Centre (ICC), His Majesty also reminded these future leaders to be ready to provide assistance whenever the situation calls for it.
“This is what our country as well as the communities need from our youth,” the monarch added.
His Majesty also urged the youth, especially those recognised for their leadership through titles such as Belia Harapan Negara, Belia Harapan Bangsa and Belia Pelita Zaman to contribute their time and effort in supporting the development of the country.
“It is imperative that these youth are aware of the expectations that come with the titles, which are accorded in recognition of their potential to drive the country forward,” the monarch added.
His Majesty also attributed the decreasing threat of COVID-19 in the Sultanate to the blessings from Allah the Almighty, allowing the people to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with less restrictive measures.
Nonetheless, the monarch urged, the populace must remain vigilant by adhering to the health protocols and standard operating procedures (SOPs) to keep a tight lid on the outbreak of the virus.
His Majesty said, “The world is still struggling with the pandemic and its impacts. However, Alhamdulillah, the Sultanate has been able to find strategies that work in curbing local transmissions to ensure the continuity of everyday life and pave the way for economic
development.”
The monarch expressed gratitude for Allah the Almighty’s protection, which has been granted through Istighfar, the reading of Al-Quran, the recitation of Zikir and Selawat for Prophet Muhammad (pbuh).
“Insya Allah, the efforts will continue to be carried out to fulfil the religious requirements,” His Majesty added.
