By Za'im Zaini and Sonia K.
Thousands of people from all walks of life, including students and senior citizens, gathered yesterday to greet His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's arrival at the Tutong District community hall.
Among the well-wishers was a youth, Wan Muhd Azem from Kg Keriam, Tutong. He said that every year it is a must for him to come and greet His Majesty as it is his chance to show his loyalty and affection to the monarch.
One of the 1,200 participants of the cultural performance, Awg Fairuz Anak Yukoi from Sekolah Menengah RIPAS said that they had practised for two months for the show. He admitted to being nervous before the performance. However, he was very happy to have been given a chance to participate in the show, saying that it was his gift to His Majesty. He hopes that he can take part in next year's performance too.
A spectator in his 50s, Haji Abdullah from Kg Telisai, said that watching this year's event was more comfortable as the organising committee had prepared proper facilities. He added that this year's event looked livelier. Wishing His Majesty's longevity and prosperity, he hopes to see the monarch again next year.
Local small entrepreneurs were also given the chance to display their products at Dewan Seri Kenangan. Among them was Dyg Aini Lamat who runs a family business called ZAJ. She was delighted to have been given the opportunity to display her products. She hoped that there will be more of such opportunities for her to promote ZAJ products.
Chairman of the exhibition, Hj Junaidi bin Orang Kaya Setia Negara Hj Safar, said the exhibition will run until July 23 and is open from 8am till 4.30pm.
The exhibition displays not only local products but also features the works of government agencies in Tutong District, non-government organisations, SMEs as well as Mukim Consultative Council.
- Borneo Bulletin
(18th July 2006)
