| Azlan Othman |
THE National Committee for the 71st birthday celebrations 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 convened for its first meeting yesterday at the Prime Minister’s Office in the capital.
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, who is also the committee chairman, said that careful and detailed planning should be made when organising the celebrations, in view of the Golden Jubilee of the monarch’s ascension to the throne this year.
The minister quoted from His Majesty’s recent New Year titah, in which the monarch said, “Insya Allah, in 2017, the country will witness a historic occasion in the Golden Jubilee of His Majesty’s ascension to the throne. This celebration is very meaningful as a way for us to appreciate history.”
The minister also said that he wanted to see national and administrative executive committees being set up at the district level, as well as committees and working committees, to ensure a festive atmosphere for the celebrations.
“It is expected that the royal birthday celebrations will exhibit some changes and improvements as added value, in addition to organising introductory events to attract the participation and involvement from all segments of society,” he said.
“All of this is to reflect the spirit of unity, understanding, harmony, consensus, cooperation, support and encouragement; and to demonstrate a close, cohesive and undivided loyalty to the monarch.”
Minister of Home Affairs Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia (Dr) Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong said that careful and detailed planning should be made when organising the celebrations. – PHOTOS: AZROL AZMI
Among the attendees at the meeting.
The minister also expressed hope the celebrations would display a more vibrant and exciting touch of creativity. “However, any unique approach and variations should not overlook Bruneian values and religion,” he said.
“I hope that the members of the National Committee and the chairmen of the Supreme Committee for the main events will start their round of discussions, especially in appointing committee members and in making early preparations.
“This also applies to district officers as chairpersons of the Executive Administrative Committee at the district level, who will devise and determine the appropriate events, including choosing the concept, format and programme of the get-together ceremony with the people and residents of all districts.”
The meeting discussed plans for the main events, which included the ceremonial parade and His Majesty’s get-together ceremony in all four districts, as well as the installation of decorative lights, arches and banners to mark the festivities.
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