BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

HIS Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Deputy Sultan, has urged more youth to join the National Service Programme (Program Khidmat Bakti Negara or PKBN) to uphold Bruneian values and support the implementation of Syariah law.

The Deputy Sultan in a sabda delivered during the passing out parade for the second official intake of the PKBN yesterday said young people must support the implementation of the Syariah Penal Code.

“The role and support of youth in this country is imperative in the phased implementation of the Syariah Penal Code Order. The PKBN trainees, especially as youth that have taken part in this programme, have been equipped with an understanding and spirit to uphold and defend a lifestyle that has been permitted as prescribed,” the Deputy Sultan said.

“The PKBN is a unique youth development programme. It is characterised by the attributes and lifestyle of Bruneians that uphold the sovereignty of the king, support the concept of Melayu Islam Beraja, to live peacefully and without apathy.”

However, the Deputy Sultan said the programme would need to be improved and developed further, and he urged the authorities to ensure the PKBN remained effective and relevant in the years to come.

“The execution of research, monitoring, and impact appraisal on a continuous basis is at the core of ensuring the effectiveness and relevance of this programme. Through the PKBN, confidence, discipline and the identity as an exclusive youth development programme can symbolise the grandeur and identity of this country,” the Deputy Sultan said.

At the end of his sabda, the Deputy Sultan congratulated the 245 trainees for completing the 13-week programme. With the latest intake, the PKBN alumni now totals 744 trainees.

“InsyaAllah, this number will continue to rise once the PKBN permanent complex in Batu Apoi is fully completed. The PKBN alumni will act as a platform that creates unity and camaraderie amongst former trainees.”

The Brunei Times