THE Girl Guides Association of Brunei Darussalam (PPPBD) yesterday commemorated its 5th Community Day celebration in a ceremony held at its headquarters in Kg Anggerek Desa.

Present at the event was PPPBD President HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah, who was accompanied by HRH Princess Hajah Majeedah Nuurul Bolkiah and HRH Princess Hajah Masna, the Ambassador-at-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade (MoFAT).

In her welcoming remarks, PPPBD Chief Commissioner Hajah Hafsah binti Haji Abdul Halim recalled a number of community projects initiated by the members. Almost all the projects recommended by the World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts (WAGGGS), in accordance with themes from the United Nations Millennium Goals, have been implemented, she said.

The association’s most recent community project, ‘Guiding for Community,’ carried out simultaneously across the Brunei-Muara, Belait and Tutong Districts last year, saw members involved in a three-day cleaning campaign at cemeteries, mosques and beaches, as well as the homes of single mothers and the underprivileged.

These projects are a criterion for the HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah Award, but to date, no Young Leader Unit, Girl Guides and Ranger Guides Company or Brownie Packs is eligible to receive the award. This is due to the respective Guiding Leaders’ lack of time, in view of their commitment to their own careers.

Later, the chief commissioner shared the association’s new plans, which include a community project that involves the donation of ‘telekong’ (Muslim prayer attire for women) and its twice-a-month pick-up and cleaning for the telekong.

She noted that all members can get involved in the project, regardless of age or rank in the association.

The day also saw a demonstration of activities from the association’s recent community project, and handicraft put up by members – including Brownie members.

HRH Princess Hajah Rashidah Sa’adatul Bolkiah later cut a cake to mark her birthday, before joining senior PPPBD members for a Santap.

The PPPBD is a school-based movement whose young members are encouraged to be involved in community services that encompass the environment, health and human community services. Awards are applicable to its members based on the frequency and amount of voluntary work and services they have rendered to the community. - Borneo Bulletin (30 August 2014)