RBAF hosts b'day banquet for Sultan
By Lyna Mohamad

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Supreme Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces, Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha and Her Royal Highness Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar consented to attend a royal birthday banquet hosted by RBAF last night.

Their Majesties and HRH were greeted on arrival at the International Convention Centre in Berakas by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Pehin Datu Singamanteri Col (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohamad Yasmin Hj Umar, the Commander of RBAF, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi Hj Md Yussof, as well as senior officers from MINDEF and RBAF.

Also present at the banquet were HRH Prince General Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah and other members of the royal family.

After His Majesty was introduced to the new RBAF officers and non-commissioned senior officers, His Majesty consented to cut a birthday cake.

The benevolent ruler also consented to receive a 'pesambah' from RBAF officers and other ranks. The 'pesambah' comprised a penholder made of malachite stone covered with gold and silver.

His Majesty also consented to sign the royal parchment.

Last night's performances for the royal birthday banquet included Nasyid and Tausyeh presentations by RBAF personnel.

At the end of the ceremony, Their Majesties, HRH Pg Isteri Azrinaz, HRH Prince General Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah and HRH Pg Anak Isteri Pg Anak Sarah consented to receive a "Junjung Ziarah" from MINDEF and RBAF senior officers, officers and other ranks.

Unlike previous years, invitations to last night's royal birthday banquet were extended to not only officers but also to senior ranks and other ranks from MINDEF and RBAF.

Over 1,200 MINDEF and RBAF officers and personnel attended last night's banquet. - Borneo Bulletin (1st August 2007)


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