The Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) hosted a grand dinner at the Bridex Conference Hall in Jerudong yesterday to celebrate the 65th birthday of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, the Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the RBAF. Over 760 army personnel attended last night's function.

Upon arrival, His Majesty and Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha were greeted by Deputy Minister of Defence, Dato Paduka Haji Mustappa Haji Sirat, and Commander of the RBAF, Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin.

His Majesty was then introduced to junior officers, UNIFIL (United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon) members, personnel who were currently on transitional leave and retired army personnel.

Also present at the banquet were HRH Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and General of RBAF, HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah, HRH Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, HRH Prince Haji 'Abdul 'Azim, HRH Prince 'Abdul Malik and HRH Prince 'Abdul Mateen.

After cutting a birthday cake, His Majesty consented to receive 'pesambah' from the RBAF Commander - a three-dimensional craft made of crystal, where the shape of the Ministry of Defence building was engraved in laser as the centrepiece.

Over 100 army personnel were involved in last night's entertainment, which included Nasyid and Tausyeh performances.

At the end of the ceremony, Their Majesties, HRH Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah and HRH Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah consented to receive a 'Junjung Ziarah' from MinDef and RBAF personnel.

His Majesty also consented to sign the Royal Parchment to commemorate His Majesty's gracing this year's celebrations. - Borneo Bulletin (23rd July 2011)