By Azlan Othman
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam underscored that the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) concept should not be allowed to fade away or be erased by any influence, be it ideology or system.
In a titah at the International Convention Centre during the officiating of the Knowledge Convention yesterday, the monarch said the history of Brunei Darussalam is filled with great values, which form the MIB concept.
"It is a reward from Allah the Almighty and the value is priceless compared to the one made by man.
"It demands responsibility and trust. We as the nation and its people should shoulder the responsibility. We should preserve and uphold such rewards and wear them as the pride of the nation and as a national heritage.
"It should not be allowed to fade or be erased by any influence, be it by ideology or any system. It is possible that within the name of ideology and system, there are certain things that may not be aligned.
"MIB is the nation's heart and soul. It should not be perceived and treated ordinarily but should be treated with awareness and understanding. Every individual should be aware that MIB is not a narrow path but a long and wide highway that promises comfort and well being for all.
"I hope that the Knowledge Convention and programmes that are lined up would change any short-sighted public attitudes and beliefs towards MIB," the Sultan said.
The benevolent ruler expressed his pleasure that the Knowledge Convention remains to be one of the core events of the monarch's birthday celebrations.
"In my view, since the convention has been taking place over the years, it has become more meaningful and beautiful. This could be seen as an event to uplift knowledge," His Majesty added.
"I understand that this year's convention has succeeded in gathering more academicians locally and from abroad to discuss and talk about 'Malay'. This is appropriate in line with the internal situation and environment, which requires us to think and talk about who the Malays are.
"We could find the answer through knowledge, which enables us to know about the nation and its history. This is crucial. History is the tongue of truth and we cannot lock the tongue but allow it to speak as it is crucial and priceless.
"History should not be kept in silence. The race which mutes its history is a cowardly race. Hence, it is appropriate to be a courageous race that has the courage to question and enlighten its inner self.
"This is the way for us to learn from history. The nation of people which likes to learn from history is a great nation. From history we begin and also from history we sketch our name. That is the beauty of history," said the monarch.
Also present at the event were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj Jefri Bolkiah, HRH Prince 'Abdul 'Azim and HRH Prince 'Abdul Malik.
- Borneo Bulletin
(27th July 2010)
