In true legal tradition, the legal community of Brunei Darussalam saw the inauguration of the Legal Year 2011 held yesterday at the Supreme Court Building in Jalan Tutong.

Gracing the ceremony was Her Royal Highness Princess Hjh Muta-Wakkilah Hayatul Bolkiah.

Chief Justice Dato Seri Paduka Haji Kifrawi bin Dato Paduka Awg Hj Kifli inspected a guard of honour mounted by members of the Royal Brunei Police Force.

The Chief Justice, the Attorney General Datin Paduka Hajah Hayati binti POKSDSP Haji Mohd Salleh and President of the Law Society Pg Izad-Ryan bin PLKDR Pg Hj Bahrin put forward their concerns and suggestions in enhancing the legal system in Brunei Darussalam in their speeches shortly after the parade.

Also in attendance were the Syari'e Chief Justice, High Court judges, diplomats, permanent and deputy permanent secretaries, Syariah High Court judges, Intermediate Court judge, director and deputy director of the State Judiciary Department, registrars and magistrates of the Supreme Court, Syariah Subordinate Court judges, deputy public prosecutors of the Attorney General's Chambers, private lawyers, invited guests, students, officers and staff of the State Judiciary Department.

The Chief Justice in his speech expressed his gratitude to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's Government for providing support to the legal system of the country.

He added that the Law Society's initiative is to bring members together to foster closer relations and stimulate better understanding within the community by actively organising law dinners, sports, games and seminars for its members since its establishment.

Also highlighted by the Chief Justice was the Law Society's initiative to help the poor and members of the public who do not have the means to hire a lawyer by providing them with free legal advice.

Before closing the ceremony, a doa was read to bless the event led by Mohammad Amin bin Haji Salim, Mosque Affairs Officer. - Borneo Bulletin (10th March 2011)