The annual royal birthday banquet at Istana Nurul Iman continues to be a highly anticipated occasion, bringing together invited guests from across society to celebrate and honour 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 birthday.
Held in conjunction with His Majesty’s 80th birthday celebration, the banquet on Thursday evening offered guests a memorable opportunity to share in the joyous occasion while expressing their appreciation for the Monarch’s leadership and service to the nation.
Speaking to The Bulletin, several guests described the invitation as a meaningful honour and a moment they would treasure.
Brandon Tay said he felt deeply honoured and humbled to be invited to attend His Majesty’s 80th birthday banquet.
“I am truly grateful to be part of His Majesty’s 80th birthday celebration. This invitation is especially meaningful to me because attending His Majesty’s birthday banquet has been a cherished family tradition,” he said.
Brandon shared that he had been fortunate to attend the event with his grandparents over the years and hoped to continue the tradition in the future.
Reflecting on what he admired most about His Majesty, he highlighted the Monarch’s dedication to the people of Brunei.
“Throughout the years, His Majesty has led the nation with wisdom, compassion and humility, always placing the wellbeing of the rakyat first,” he said, adding that His Majesty’s lifelong service and leadership continue to inspire generations of Bruneians.
Haslinda Abdul Hamid described the invitation as a great honour and a moment she would always cherish.
“I feel truly honoured and grateful to receive the invitation. It is a once-a-year opportunity and a proud moment for both my husband and me,” she said.
She added that the banquet was a privilege and a memorable experience, while expressing admiration for His Majesty’s caring leadership, wisdom and commitment towards the nation’s peace, development and the welfare of the people.
Meanwhile, Village Head of Kampung Penanjong, Tutong, Mohd Ariffin bin Haji Akip, said he was delighted to once again be invited to the royal celebration.
“Alhamdulillah, as in previous years, we were honoured to be invited to Istana Nurul Iman for His Majesty’s birthday banquet. We are always happy and grateful to be part of this special celebration,” he said.
Mohd Ariffin, who previously served as a government photographer, recalled covering royal events at Istana Nurul Iman, including investiture ceremonies and birthday banquets.
He said the invitation carries special significance for village heads as it reflects His Majesty’s appreciation towards citizens and public servants.
“What I admire most about His Majesty is that he is truly berjiwa rakyat (people-oriented). He is always close to his subjects, genuinely concerned about their wellbeing and takes the time to interact with the people,” he said.
He also conveyed his prayers for His Majesty’s continued good health, longevity and blessings, and for His Majesty to continue leading Brunei Darussalam.
For Pushpa Abaggani, spouse of the High Commissioner of India to Brunei Darussalam, the banquet marked her first attendance at the royal celebration.
“It is our first time attending His Majesty’s birthday banquet, and it is especially meaningful as it coincides with His Majesty’s 80th birthday. It is a great honour and pleasure to be invited to such a grand celebration,” she said.
She described the invitation extended to members of the diplomatic corps as a thoughtful gesture reflecting Brunei’s appreciation for its international partners.
Pushpa also expressed hope that Brunei-India relations would continue to strengthen across various sectors, noting that events such as the banquet provide opportunities to foster greater understanding of Bruneian culture.
“We are always impressed by Bruneian hospitality. People here are so welcoming, especially during Hari Raya and other special occasions,” she said, wishing His Majesty continued good health, happiness and many more years of blessed leadership.
Pengiran Kamarulzaman PHI, who attended the banquet with his siblings, said they were deeply honoured and grateful to be part of the historic celebration.
He described the invitation as a privilege and a meaningful recognition that he and his siblings would always cherish.
“What I admire most about His Majesty is his unwavering dedication, wisdom and compassion in serving the nation. Throughout the years, His Majesty has always placed the wellbeing of the people first while leading the country with stability, peace and prosperity,” he said.
He added that His Majesty’s humility, sense of responsibility and commitment to the nation serve as an inspiration to continue striving for excellence, serving with integrity and contributing positively to society.
SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/LYNA MOHAMMAD
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