Majestic tribute on the waterfront
By Za'im Zaini

A monument to mark His Majesty's 60th birthday could usher in a new look for the waterfront in Bandar Seri Begawan by next May. And if all goes as planned with the tribute, its construction underlines the private sector cooperation as an indisputable part of the engine of growth for the nation as well as being a catalyst for the economy.

This was stated by the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Orang Kaya Johan Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Adanan bin Begawan Pehin Siraja Khatib Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Md Yusof, who was guest of honour in his capacity as chairman of the committee for the "Cendera Kenangan Kekal" at the donation ceremony for the construction of the monument in conjunction with the 60th birthday of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam.

"We in this country are fortunate because the private sector including local companies as well as entrepreneurs, are concerned and come forward to mutually give aid, support, cooperation and participation in providing the donation in the form of money for whatever national events, including making the birthday celebration of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam a success," he said at the function held at the Centrepoint Hotel, 7th floor, in Gadong yesterday.

"This proves the concern and commitment of the private sector and the public in mutually providing support in organizing events and projects," he added.

Speaking on the project, the minister revealed "the location for the construction of the 'Cendera Kenangan Kekal' at a strategic area on the site of the former immigration post building in the capital facing Kg. Ayer and the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah building. The strategic location and its attractive design will make it a landmark as well as enhancing the beauty of Bandar Seri Begawan for tourists. This project will be incorporated into the waterfront of Bandar Seri Begawan.

The project is a "pesambah" to be presented to His Majesty the Sultan and is a meaningful gift for all citizens and residents of the country to savour as a recreational area to mark His Majesty's 60th birthday.

The minister added: "I am grateful and awed at the participation and encouraging commitment from the private sector. This is evident through your presence this afternoon that reflects the unified support as well as patriotism, understanding, cooperation and cohesive support for the Government of His Majesty in implementing various projects for the progress of this nation."

Earlier, those present at the ceremony heard a welcoming remark from the chairman of the committee of finance Cendera Kenangan Kekal, Pehin Orang Kaya Ratna Setia Dato Setia Haji Awang Abd Hapidz bin Pehin Orang kaya Laksmana Haji Awang Abd Razak, who said "so far, the amount collected in the form of donations that is to be presented to the minister is in the sum of more than 1 million dollars, and I believe this number will increase after our meeting today".

Towards the end, more than 60 contributors comprising those from the private sector and individuals presented donations to the Minister of Home Affairs. Also present was Pehin Orang Kaya Dewa Pahlawan Dato Paduka Haji Dani bin Haji Ibrahim, Deputy Minister of Home Affairs. (6th Dec 2006)


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