Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha, the Royal Patron of the Brunei Darussalam Council of Women (MWNBD), consented to attend her 65th birthday celebration last night at the International Convention Centre (ICC) in Berakas.

The celebration was organised by the Brunei Darussalam Council of Women in collaboration with the Welfare Association of the Wives and Families of the Royal Brunei Police Force (PEKERTI), Brunei Darussalam Nurses Association (PENJURU) and Brunei Shell Ladies Association (BSLA).

Upon arrival, Her Majesty was greeted by Pengiran Datin Paduka Hajah Mariam Pengiran Haji Matarsat, the President of MWNBD. Accompanying Her Majesty were Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, HRH Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah, HRH Princess Hajah Masna and HRH Princess Hajah Amal Umi Kalthum Al-Islam.

The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by welcoming remarks by the President of MWNBD, in which she expressed her gratitude on behalf of the council towards Her Majesty's continuous support and encouragement to women in the country, particularly to the MWNBD.

Last night's event was attended by about 800 women comprising members of the 13 women's non-government organisations such as Pertiwi, Women's Institution (WI), PGGMB, Brunei Darussalam Girl Guide Association (PPPBD), the Brunei Government Senior Officers Wives Welfare Association (BISTARI), Kampong Lambak Youth Association (PERBEKAL), Welfare Association of the Spouses of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (BAKTI), the Women Graduates (PSW), Women Welfare Association (PKP), Nurul Islam Association (PNI), Kampong Junjungan Women Association (PEWAJA), Tutong Women Welfare Associations (PERGANITA) and Lambak Kanan National Housing Women's Welfare Body (BAKANITA).

There was also a grand fireworks display courtesy of Pehin Kapitan Lela Diraja Dato Paduka Awang Goh King Chin. Her Majesty also consented to receive pesambah from members of the organising committee. - Borneo Bulletin (15th Octopber 2011)