A strong outpouring of loyalty and affection was evident for 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 in the capital yesterday' as thousands of people from all walks of life turned out at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien for the get-together ceremony to celebrate the beloved monarch's 70th birthday.

­The Junjung Ziarah ceremony transformed the Taman into a sea of colours, enlivened with culturally diverse performances and the smiles of thousands of well-wishers thronging the venue to greet the monarch in the event that lasted for almost four hours.

Around 2,000 schoolchildren lined up along the road leading to the Taman, waving mini-Brunei flags and cheering as the royal entourage passed slowly and headed towards the Taman. The monarch was seen waving to the cheering crowds amid the beating of 'hadrah' drums, announcing the arrival of His Majesty.

His Majesty was greeted at the Taman by Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Dr. Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, the Minister of Home Affairs and the Chairman of the National Executive Committee for His Majesty's 70th birthday celebrations; and Awang Misle bin Haji Abdul Karim, the Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer.

Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office; His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Malik; and His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen.

Upon the royal entourage's arrival on the royal dais, the Taman resonated with the national anthem sung by a choir, with musical accompaniment from the Royal Brunei Police Force Band.

This was followed by three cheers of 'Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik', by mukim penghulus and village heads, as well as the National Executive Committee for His Majesty's 70th birthday celebrations and representatives from organisations within the district.

In his speech, the Acting Brunei-Muara District Officer expressed his gratitude and appreciation for the monarch's wise leadership which brought progress and harmony to the country and its people. He also expressed his appreciation to His Majesty for his presence, at the same time pledging allegiance and undivided loyalty to the monarch, on behalf of the citizens.

As a curtain-raiser before the performances, His Majesty witnessed the grand final of the National Level Tug-of-War Championship in the heavyweight category between the Brunei-Muara and Tutong districts, as they vied for the His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah Trophy.

The Brunei-Muara team emerged as the champions, defending their title in the heavyweight category, after defeating the Tutong District team following two rounds of matches.

His Majesty later witnessed a special religious-themed performance based around the theme of 'Daulat Raja Merentas Zaman' (Reverence for The Ruler Across the Centuries) from local actors and singers, along with students from secondary schools and higher institutions in the district.

Following the performances, His Majesty, leading the royal entourage, received well-wishes from the National Executive Committee for His Majesty's 70th birthday celebrations, mukim penghulus, village heads and members of the public.

Most of the well-wishers came armed with portraits and pens, for autographs from His Majesty. The occasion was further enlivened with thousands eager to have a photo opportunity with His Majesty, while others presented the monarch with pesambahs for his birthday.

The line of people waiting to greet the monarch at the Taman extended to the streets of Jalan Sultan. After spending almost two hours of interacting with the crowds, His Majesty proceeded to the Banquet Hall of the Lapau Diraja for a royal luncheon.

Yesterday's event was a culmination of the annual Junjung Ziarah ceremonies in all four districts, giving a rare opportunity to everyone, including expatriates and tourists, to greet His Majesty and convey their best wishes for the monarch's birthday. 

Source:
@BRUDIRECT.COM

by BruDirect.com

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