By Azlan Othman
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to join Cabinet Ministers and other high-ranking officials in a health and leisure event dubbed "brisk walk" at Bukit Shahbandar Recreational Park in Jerudong.
His Majesty, accompanied by His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Malik, was greeted on arrival at the park by Minister of Industry and Primary Resources, Pehin Dato Dr. Awg Hj Ahmad, and Minister of Health, Pehin Dato Awg Hj Suyoi. Both ministries jointly organised the event along with the Prime Minister's Office.
Also joining the brisk walk that has two options, the 3.5 kilometre and 1.9 km walk, were Cabinet Ministers, Deputy Ministers, Permanent Secretaries and 1,000 officials from 12 ministries and government departments.
The 'brisk walk' was a follow-up to similar events held last year and is aimed at encouraging senior officials aged below 40 years to participate in leisure activities and to make it as a regular activity.
Such events are also aimed at fostering closer ties among officials.
Prior to the 'brisk walk', aerobic exercises to flex and stretch muscles were conducted.
Officials comprising uniformed personnel started the walk around 8am with His Majesty and His Royal Highness following suit.
Paramedics, officials from the Armed Forces and Forestry Department were stationed at various points leading to the ninth hill to assist those in need. They also distributed drinks to the participants.
The participants looked exhausted after they reached the second 'Pondok', but most of them opted for the more challenging 3.5-kilometre route crossing rough terrain and steep hills.
A big round of applause greeted the caring monarch upon completing the walk.
- Borneo Bulletin
(20th Feb 2006)
