| Aziz Idris |
BRUNEI will observe the 13th National Youth Day Celebration on August 1 at the Plenary Hall of the International Convention Centre (ICC), Berakas, highlighting youth entrepreneurs and the annual youth awards.
This was revealed by Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports (MCYS) Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila binti Dato Paduka Haji Abdul Jalil during a press conference at the MCYS building yesterday.
Carrying the theme, Belia Pemacu Brunei Maju (Driven Youth Advocating Brunei), this year’s celebration focusses on recognising youth entrepreneurship and leadership who have contributed to the development of the nation towards achieving Vision 2035.
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 is expected to grace the event.
The youth will participate in the get-together with His Majesty during the National Youth Day ceremony, also held at the ICC.
An exhibition highlighting successful youth entrepreneurship, themed Kejayaan Terbukti (Proven Success) will be held on the day.
“This gathering will highlight successful youth in numerous fields, including entrepreneurs who have impacted the community, embraced the country’s name or receive any recognised overseas awards,” Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila explained. She added that a Youth Entrepreneur Assembly will be held on the morning of August 2.
The public are invited to attend the session.
Among the activities highlighted by Datin Paduka Dr Hajah Norlila include mass prayers and Doa Kesyukuran on July 26 at Perpindahan Lambak Kanan Mosque, a special Friday sermon on youth, the much-anticipated cycling event as well as a host of other activities to be announced at a later date.
National Youth Day was first held in 2006, initiated by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam as a way to appreciate and celebrate the contribution of youth, and to motivate them in their efforts towards national development.
Awards are presented to outstanding individuals and associations in recognition of their work in youth and national development.
MCYS stated that there will be four categories of awards: Youth Awards for Excellent Project; Youth Award for Young Leadership; Youth Award for Excellence; and Youth Service Award.
The National Youth Day also serves as a platform for youth to gather and exchange ideas regarding the country’s national development.
It also aims to encourage youth to be proactive and foster good relationships.
Others present were Acting Director of Youth Development and Sports Haji Rosmadee bin Haji Mohd Daud; Acting Director of Youth and Sports Haji Zafri bin Haji Mohamed; Administration Officer Grade 1 Azizul Azri bin Haji Majit; leaders and representatives from youth associations.