By Malek Hashim
Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha yesterday consented to attend a ceremony held in conjunction with Her Majesty's birthday celebration held by the wives of cabinet ministers, deputy cabinet ministers, permanent secretaries, the wife of the private and confidential secretary to His Majesty, wives of deputy permanent secretaries and aligned members at the Royal Berkshire Hall, Jerudong Park.
Accompanying Her Majesty were HRH Pengiran Isteri Azrinaz Mazhar, HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah, HRH Princess Hajah Hafizah Sururul Bolkiah, HRH Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Zariah, HRH Princess Hajah Masna and HRH Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.
Upon arrival Her Majesty and other members of the royal family were greeted by the wives of cabinet ministers, deputy cabinet ministers, permanent secretaries, the wife of the private and confidential secretary to His Majesty, wives of deputy permanent secretaries and aligned members.
This was followed by a group photo session and the singing of the national anthem in the banquet area.
In an opening speech by Datin Hjh Masnah bte Hj Tuah, chairperson of the organising committee, said the ceremony was held to express their dearest love to Her Majesty.
Datin Hjh Masnah went on to say about the activities held by the wives of cabinet ministers, deputy cabinet ministers, permanent secretaries, the wife of the private and confidential secretary to His Majesty, wives of deputy permanent secretaries and aligned members throughout the year and the success of organising the activities.
The event also saw the cutting of a birthday cake by Her Majesty. A 'pesambah' from the wife of the private and confidential secretary to His Majesty, wives of deputy permanent secretaries and aligned members was also presented to Her Majesty.
Various song performances were also held by the wife of the private and confidential secretary to His Majesty, wives of deputy permanent secretaries and aligned members, as well as their children.
The royal guestswere also treated to a live singing performance by Maria, a well-known local entertainer who belted out three songs - 'Waktu', 'Janji' and 'Bassanova'.
- Borneo Bulletin
(18th Oct 2008)