RECIPIENTS of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s personal gift in the form of ‘Kurnia’, in conjunction with the upcoming Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration, yesterday expressed their gratitude to the ruler for the gesture.

The gift was given to the less fortunate members of society comprising citizens of different age groups and ethnicity to help raise the festive mood.

Recipients said the ‘Kurnia’ made them feel a little special, even though they still have difficulties and challenges in life, and that such a gesture makes them feel closer to the monarch.

A 60-year-old senior citizen, Awang Mirasan bin Hj Jumarrat, expressed his deepest gratitude, saying that although he may not be able to return the gift in kind to His Majesty, he will pray for His Majesty and the royal family’s good health.

“This ‘Kurnia’ is essential for me. It will assist me in purchasing my daily food rations and prepare for the upcoming Hari Raya celebration, and to help lessen the difficulties I am enduring in daily life,” he said.

Awg Mirasan, who resides at Kg Bukit Beruang in Tutong, added, that this is the first time he has received the ‘Kurnia’ and that he will use it in the best possible way.

A senior citizen from Kg Sinaut, Awang Hj Sabtu bin Taram, 72, a special needs individual, expressed his gratitude for having a caring and concerned king.

He said His Majesty is a monarch that a lot of people can feel close to.

He expressed his gratitude for His Majesty’s caring attitude towards the country’s senior citizens.

Meanwhile, Dayang Rohana binti Amas, 50, from Penanjong, who is a recipient under the single mothers category, felt touched and happy to receive such a bountiful gift.

“I will use as best as I can of the ‘Kurnia’ from His Majesty to purchase daily necessities and the balance I will save for rainy days,” she said, adding that this is the third time she has received the ‘Kurnia’ and is thankful for His Majesty’s generosity.

Awang Mohammad Affiq bin Jufferi from Kg Sinaut, 15, also took the opportunity to express his gratitude, saying that the Sultan is ever attentive to the needs of his people who are less capable.

Affiq, who was accompanied by his mother, said this is his third time receiving the ‘Kurnia’ and felt very fortunate for the gift.

Dayang Nur Atailiah binti Md Zaini, 29, a mother to five children, was also touched with the act of generosity, saying that she will continue to pray for blessings for the monarch and the nation.

She said it was her first ‘Kurnia’ gift and that she will use it for meaningful purposes such as purchasing necessities for her children and making Hari Raya more joyous.

Dyg Nur Qawimah Syahmilia binti Abdullah Buma, 27, a representative of her four-year-old son, Awg Md Marteen bin Abdullah Mohd Ruddy, expressed her thankfulness and described His Majesty as a “kind king”.

According to her, the ‘Kurnia’ will be used to celebrate Hari Raya Aidilfitri with her son and the balance will be placed in her son’s account.

She expressed her gratitude and love to His Majesty for the personal gift and said she would pray for his good health and continued reign of peace and prosperity. - Borneo Bulletin (2 July 2014)