His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday pointed out the get-together ceremonies with the people of Brunei as the highlight of the monarch's 66th birthday celebrations, and wished his loyal subjects a happy Ramadhan.

His Majesty spoke to the Borneo Bulletin shortly after consenting to receive a pesambah from reporters and photographers of the Bulletin.

Answering a question regarding what the monarch felt was the highlight of this year's celebrations, His Majesty said, with a smile, "The highlight is the get-together."

The benevolent monarch also consented to res-pond to a question regarding a message for the nation in light of the upcoming holy month of Ramadhan, and wished the country a "Happy Ramadhan."

Celebrations marking the monarch's 66th birthday have taken place around the country in all four districts over the last few days, beginning with the official celebration on July 15, which saw His Majesty witness a flawless ceremonial parade at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien in the capital.

The following four days saw the birthday celebrations held in Brunei's respective districts, which saw His Majesty, accompanied by other members of the royal family, get-together with and receive well wishes and birthday greetings from members of the public.

By saying that the get-together was the highlight of the celebrations, His Majesty in a simple answer showed the special attachment he has with his subjects.

Over a period of four days, thousands of Bruneians showed their eagerness in no small measure to personally greet His Majesty, which showed how they revere their monarch.

The youth of the nation hold His Majesty in high esteem and His Majesty has a special connection with them. His Majesty's guidance through the many titahs and working visits stand the youths in good stead.

The first district that feted His Majesty was Belait, which saw thousands throng the Municipal Field for the get-together with the ruler.

The next day saw the Tutong District play host to the 66th birthday celebrations, and saw thousands of loyal subjects throng the district's Community Hall Complex Field to meet their beloved monarch.

Brunei's Green Jewel, Temburong District, was the third district to fete His Majesty and other members of the royal family, featuring a field performance under the theme of, "Monarch's Vision and People's Vision are the Country's Vision", which focused on the concept of 'Darussalam Bilhuda'.

Yesterday marked the final district get-together ceremony for the 66th royal birthday, taking place in Brunei's most populated district, Brunei-Muara.

Well-wishers came in their thousands for a chance to meet the People's Monarch, as could be seen from the sea of hands lining the camps set up at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien, as well as along the road leading to the Taman. - Borneo Bulletin (20 July 2012)