THE Minister for the Environment and Water Resources Dr Vivian Balakrishnan together with his wife is in Brunei for a visit from August 13-15, as the Singapore Government’s representative to attend His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s 68th birthday celebration.

They had a joint audience with His Majesty and Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan conveyed birthday greetings from Singapore’s leaders to His Majesty and reaffirmed the long standing friendship and further opportunities to strengthen the relationship between Brunei and Singapore.

In addition, he also attended the royal guard of honour ceremony and the Investiture Ceremony yesterday where several state awards were conferred.

Among the recipients was Singapore Senior Lieutenant Col Meyyappan Nadarajan Thevar, who was awarded the Darjah Paduka Seri Laila Jasa Yang Amat Berjasa Darjah Ketiga in recognition of his contributions to the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Command and Staff College.

Dr Vivian Balakrishnan and wife also attended the royal banquet last night. - Borneo Bulletin (15 August 2014)