SOME 7,500 performers participated in the 29th National Day Celebration at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday to showcase their spirit of patriotism for the nation

Most of the participants, comprising youths (core-group) from various schools, colleges and educational institutions, evidently demonstrating the vital role they play as national assets in nation building.

The concept of the performance this year reflected upon the nation’s competitiveness and stability in terms of defending the rights and sovereignty of the Sultanate.

Some 2,700 youths from the core-group displayed Brunei’s traditional shields (utap) with the words ‘Allahu Akbar’ inscribed on it as team leaders formed a line before the Royal Dias.

This was followed by three interchanging displays namely the National Day logo showcase, the Brunei flag, and the 29 years of independence from 1984 to 2013. Performers navigated the displays using a well-synchronised domino effect.

Another group formed a picture frame on the field while others assembled smaller images within the frame as the third group carried miniature flags as accessories to reveal the final picture – ‘the 29th National Day logo’.

The seven-minute performance portrayed the theme, ‘My Country Brunei Darussalam’ backed by the harmonious choir group that belted out songs of patriotism.

Some 21,000 participants took part in the march-pass parade as 10,000 spectators witnessed the colourful spectacle that defined the significance of the event.

The Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, Pehin Orang Kaya Pekerma Laila Diraja Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Hazair congratulated all performers and participants for making the National Day celebration a success this year. - Borneo Bulletin (24 February 2013)