BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

TURNING up to the parade at Taman Hj Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (SOAS) is the best way for Bruneians to show their loyalty to His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, grassroots leaders said.

Kampung Bebuloh Head Village Hj Md Said Tundak said parents should train their children to participate in the monarch’s birthday celebrations early.

In an interview on the sidelines of His Majesty’s 69th birthday parade, he said a strong sense of patriotism among youth starts at home.

“By waking up your children as early as 5am to celebrate the monarch’s birthday, this will ultimately instil love and affection towards the leader of the country,” the village chief said.

Meanwhile, Village Chief of Kampung Pelambayan Hj Halipah Begawan Pehin Udana Khatib Hj Junit said members of the public joining the celebrations demonstrated the strong solidarity and understanding among residents and the monarch.

He said such celebrations can educate the youth on the importance of being part of a community.

“We should be present for His Majesty. Were it not for him, we are nothing in the eyes of the world,” he said.

“I noticed that some people would watch football matches in the stadium under heavy rain. Why is it that they don’t do this for His Majesty?” said Hj Halipah.

He said parents should attend the celebration to educate children as a “sign of obedience” to the monarch.

Penghulu of Mukim Liang Hj Abdul Hamid Hj Mumin said celebrating His Majesty’s birthday is a Brunei tradition.

This royal celebration is an inspiration for future generations that will last forever, said the penghulu.

“When you grow old, you can tell stories to your grandchildren about what Brunei is like two decades ago. You are part of history in the making,” he said.

Head Village of Tutong’s Kg Bakiau Hj Md Taib Hj Jaluddin said the quality of a country’s youth determines the kind of future the nation will have.

“The vision of our country lies in the hands of our youths. Therefore, parents should always remind their children to love our king and our country to bring about a bright future for the development of Brunei,” he said.

“Just attend this once a year activity regardless of the heat, rain and limited parking space. We should find ways to get parking, bring towels whenever we are sweating, and to express our loyalty towards His Majesty whom we love and care,” said Hj Md Taib, who has been a head village for 12 years.

The Brunei Times