Royal Affair at grand Concert Dirgahayu Emas
By Lyna Mohamad

It was a grand Concert Dirgahayu Emas especially staged for His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in celebration of his 60th birthday at the Jerudong Amphitheatre last night

Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha and HRH Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar also graced the concert, another major event of the month-long celebration.

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and HRH Paduka Seri Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Sarah and other members of the royal family were also present, as well as other invited guests who were presented with various performances showcased by local and foreign artistes.

His Majesty's grandson, YAM Pengiran Anak Abdul Raqiib, was also on the stage. Guests had the honour of seeing performances by His Majesty's grand-daughters, YAM Pg Anak Raheemah Sanaul Bolkiah and YAM Pengiran Anak Hariisah Widadul Bolqiah, making the night a special and memorable one.

During their performances, YAM Pg Anak Raheemah recited a "Sajak Dirgahayu", while her younger sister, YAM Pg Anak Hariisah belted out "Tomorrow" and "The Greatest Love of All".

Last night's concert began with the opening act of "Tambang Syair" and "Berdatang Sembah Menjunjung Duli" dances, which was followed by a singing performance of "Dirgahayu Emas".

After the performances, His Majesty consented to receive a Pesembah presented by Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awg Hj Adanan, the Minister of Home Affairs and Chairman of the National Committee for His Majesty's 60th birthday celebrations.

Also performing last night were guest artistes from Indonesia namely Iyeth Bustami and Darmansyah, along with local artistes Fathan, Zul F, Ak Shahminan, Tuminam, Dk Salbiah, Maya and other upcoming local stars.

Not missing the golden opportunity to perform for the royal family, the Tarian Gerak Budaya Shell group also performed "Tarian Shell" as well as a presentation by the Chinese dance group from Chung Hwa Middle School. - Borneo Bulletin (13th August 2006)


close