By Za'im Zaini, Yusrin Junaidi and Cedrina Norlaila Abd Clark
The 'Pasar Ria' scene is back. More than 100 stalls were opened Saturday night at the start of the month-long festivities marking the 60th birthday of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan Brunei Darussalam.
Many people, including tourists, flocked to the capital, looking to grab a bite. They were spoilt for choice with a massive variety of dishes on offer.
There were three separate locations for the stalls - in front of the Royal Regalia, at the Taman Jubli and at Jalan Sultan. Food and drinks were not only the items which drew the people as vendors also offered various products such as inflatable toys, jewellery and fabrics.
To add to the festive mood at the 'Pasar Ria', stage performances were held by local singers and dancers.
Among the tourists spotted in the crowd were Peter and Steven who work on the visiting luxury cruiseliner 'The World'. They said that the night event was amazing and spectacular, comparing it to the lively scene in Singapore.
A local, Hjh Sabdiah, said that every year she would take her children to the capital for the event.
One of the stall operators, Rozaimah, noticed a surge in the number of people coming to the event compared to last year. "It is much more livelier this year," she added.
Those who missed out on the feast, entertainment and fun should not worry because the 'Pasar Ria' will be around till the end of the month.
- Borneo Bulletin
(17th July 2006)
