Rokiah Mahmud
One hundred and ninety-five people were granted Brunei citizenship in a ceremony at the International Convention Centre yesterday. The Bulletin spoke to several new citizens about their experience in applying for Brunei citizenship.
Zaimah binti Ahmad said she applied for the citizenship some 11 years ago after getting married to her Bruneian husband. Her children are Bruneians following their father.
Zaimah expressed gratitude and felt blessed on being granted Brunei citizenship. She thanked 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 for granting her Brunei citizenship. Zaimah said before being granted the citizenship, she underwent interviews and attended briefings by the Immigration and National Registration Department (INRD).
Teo Thian Sio, who accepted the citizenship rights on behalf of his adopted son Thu Wei Lun @ Theo Wei Lun, promised undivided loyalty to His Majesty. Sio applied for his adopted son’s citizenship 15-years-ago and was happy to see his son become a Brunei citizen.
Lim Sze Yee who received the certificate on behalf of her third son Cody Law Kai Jun shared that it was a joyous and memorable occasion. Two of her children have already been granted Brunei citizenship and she is awaiting for her fourth child to be granted the citizenship.
Recipients were required to attend the ceremony in Brunei’s national costume – Baju Cara Melayu and Baju Kurung. Legislative Council members, permanent and deputy permanent secretaries, acting deputy permanent secretary, heads of departments, senior officers at the Ministry of Home Affairs as well as penghulus, officers and INRD staff also attended the ceremony.
