| Azlan Othman |
CELEBRATIONS of important days in the Islamic calendar will focus on the theme of government and state leadership, in view of the 50th Golden Jubilee 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’s ascension to the throne.
This was highlighted yesterday, during an Executive Committee Meeting for the National Major Islamic Events, by Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Haji Awang Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Haji Awang Othman, the Minister of Religious Affairs, who also chaired the meeting at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.
“In addition, there are also sub-themes that highlight the essence of the teachings, which should be propagated as significant or historical events happening on important days in the Islamic calendar,” said the minister.
“When promoting Islam at a national level, we should do it cooperatively as a joint commitment by all, instead of being a mere monopoly by certain parties in terms of religious matters.”
The minister also noted that the objective of this meeting is to formulate and act upon suggestions in regard to significant events in the Islamic year of 1439 Hijrah.
“This marks our continuing commitment to the country to glorify Islam, which is the official religion, as well as being the main support and guidance in governance.
“The religion of Islam, which has been practised in this country for centuries, has formed our way of life and influences the quality of life in the Brunei monarchial system which is full of goodness, peace and happiness.
“Accordingly, in every celebration, we try to highlight important teachings and principles, which are relevant. We have the appropriate themes to offer, while promoting the teachings of Islam which serve as a strong base and authority.”
The meeting discussed working papers to be presented for upcoming major events in the Islamic calendar such as the New Year of 1439 Hijrah, the Maulidur Rasul, an Al-Quran reading competition for adults and the celebrations for Israk Mikraj.
Among the matters discussed were the themes for every event and venue; side activities; and the appointment of steering, executive and working committees. As in previous years, Islamic events will be observed mainly through religious activities organised by ministries, departments, and mosques, suraus and religious halls such as special prayers to welcome in the New Year of 1439 Hijrah, as well as religious talks and forums.
Also present at the meeting were Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Haji Abdul Aziz bin Pengiran Jaya Negara Pengiran Haji Abu Bakar, the Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara; Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Abdul Mokti bin Haji Mohd Daud, the Deputy Minister of Religious Affairs; and other senior government officials.