BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

A TOTAL OF 768 youths took to the stage and showed their appreciation to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam with performances that symbolise the Bruneian identity.

As part of the get-together at Taman Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien yesterday, the performances were divided into three segments. Each segment had its own significance in youth development and highlighted the importance of the monarch in the country’s progress.

In the first segment, it carried the theme “Raja Berdaulat Memacu Negara”, or A Sovereign King Spearheading the Nation, to highlight the importance of the monarch in leading Bruneians toward developing the country.

The segment played out with traditional music that intertwined with an original Brunei song, Diang Dangan, which was followed by Gerak Gemala Sari.

Performers clad in brightly coloured costumes with boat paddles and seraung (wide-brimmed hats) then filled the stage accompanied by the Gerak Indah Gumalai song as they portrayed the polite characteristics of Bruneians.

The second segment placed a focus on the 21st Century National Education System (SPN21) in the form of a sketch from primary, secondary and tertiary level students.

Over 300 students from 13 education institutions took part in the sketch showcasing the efforts made towards SPN21, such as their best practices, healthy competition among students, and better learning environments.

Performance Flow Manager for Mabohai Primary School, Noor Kartimala Hj Matassan, said 20 Year Five students joined the second segment of the sketch.

“They are performing the part on Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) and their performance shows the core values of the philosophy.

“It is important for them as young children to know these values. They are very happy to perform for His Majesty and the people here,” she added.

The final segment saw a choir performance by 68 students from Berakas Secondary School belting out a song, Dirgahayu.

The grand finale ended with all the performers gathered on the stage with their props and pom-poms, before shouting “Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik!” (Hail His Majesty!).

The Brunei Times