THOUSANDS of enthusiastic local supporters witnessed one of the most unforgettable sporting moments last night when His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, accompanied by several members of the royal family, made a surprise appearance at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium.

Many lucky supporters at the match between Brunei Darussalam and Indonesia during the Hassanal Bolkiah Trophy (HBT) tournament spent quality moments taking pictures with and greeting His Majesty.

The presence of the caring monarch showed His Majesty’s deep affection for his subjects and it was in itself a motivation for the Brunei players to cross the finish line with the second half yet to be completed.

Pictures emerged on WhatsApp showing His Majesty in a light moment with the fans in the stands in scenes that will forever be etched in the memory of the spectators.

The Brunei team has Singapore, Malaysia and emerging force Vietnam to contend with but this rare night of joy and inspiration may just allow the Brunei side to dream and dare. - Borneo Bulletin (12 August 2014)