• Today: July 23, 2026

Nightly stalls strengthen national celebration

The continued organisation of the annual nightly stalls, held in conjunction with 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 80th Birthday Celebration not only strengthens the spirit of the national celebration, but also provides opportunities for local vendors to connect with the community, said Dayang Rasimah while visiting the Gerai Perayaan Jalan Bendahara, opposite the Royal Regalia Museum.

She added that the wide variety of food, beverages and products available makes it a destination that she looks forward to visiting every year.

“The atmosphere is always vibrant and festive. There are plenty of choices, and it’s wonderful to see so many local entrepreneurs showcasing their products. It’s a great place to spend time with family while celebrating His Majesty’s birthday,” the visitor said.

Meanwhile, one of the long-serving vendors, Haji Amran Haji Matasad, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support received throughout the celebrations.

“Alhamdulillah, the response has been tremendous. The atmosphere has been lively with many visitors coming throughout the week,” he said.

ABOVE & BELOW: Photos show visitors during the Gerai Perayaan Jalan Bendahara. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI
Visitors at the Gerai Perayaan Jalan Bendahara, held in conjunction with 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 80th Birthday Celebration. PHOTO: RAFI ROSLI

Haji Amran has been selling grilled squid at the annual birthday celebration for more than 20 years. From the days when the festivities were held at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien to the current venue at the Royal Regalia Museum parking area, he has consistently operated the same stall.

He said grilled squid remains his signature product because of its enduring popularity among locals and international visitors alike.

“We continue to sell grilled squid every year because it has always received exceptional support from the public and visitors to our stall,” he said.

Beyond generating festive cheer, Haji Amran noted that the annual celebration has played an important role in strengthening his family’s livelihood by providing an additional source of income and enabling him to continuously improve and expand his business.

He also expressed hope that the annual celebration stalls would continue to be organised every year, describing them as an important platform for supporting local micro, small and medium enterprises while enhancing the festive spirit of the national celebration.

Over 200 stalls have been set up, of which 20 are allocated to government agencies and non-governmental organisations, including Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah and JUZWAB, while the remaining stalls offer a wide variety of takeaway food, grilled and barbecued delicacies, beverages, sundry items and restaurant-style dining.

The annual celebration, from July 15 to August 8, 2026, has drawn thousands of visitors comprising families, local residents and tourists, making it one of the capital’s most popular destinations during the festive period.

 

SOURCE/AUTHOR : BORNEO BULLETIN/Lyna Mohamad

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