BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

YOUTH in the sultanate expressed deep admiration for the strong leadership demonstrated by His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and were inspired by his close relationship with his subjects.

“In fact, I believe other leaders throughout the world look up to the leadership style of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, who is very close to his subjects and is always in the field with his people,” Ishmal Hadinas told The Brunei Times yesterday.

Ishmal was among the youth present at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital for the customary Royal Salute and March Past ceremony, or royal birthday parade, and said he showed up early to witness the event.

“His Majesty’s leadership led to the country’s full independence and was the turning point for Brunei to develop steadily, and it’s now on par with other powerful nations with its high per capita gross domestic product (GDP).”

“Apart from the annual Majlis Ramah Mesra (get-together ceremony), His Majesty also regularly conducts visits to schools, institutions, villages and the community as a whole to communicate firsthand with the people. This approach is commendable and should be an example for leaders to communicate with people working under them who are involved in running an organisation.”

Another youth, Ahmad Rafee, said it was inspiring to read in the papers a few days ago that His Majesty had won the polo tournament cup that took place at the Royal Brunei Polo and Riding Club in Jerudong and was held in conjunction with His Majesty’s 69th birthday celebration.

“His Majesty is definitely a role model to all Bruneian youth, especially to be actively involved in sports and keeping fit and healthy. His Majesty looked stunning while playing the game!”

Meanwhile, Hjh Siti Shamsiah Hj Sajali, captain of the national netball team the Royal Bees, said His Majesty’s support of the development of sports in the sultanate was reflected in the numerous sports facilities and infrastructure provided by the government.

She added that the burning desire to raise the country’s standing to an international level, especially in the area of sports, prompted her team to never give up and spurred them to win a bronze medal at the 28th Southeast Asian (SEA) Games last June in Singapore.

“That’s why we’re joining the parade today, as a sign of our gratitude to His Majesty the Sultan. In terms of our involvement in sports, we’re thankful to the government, especially the Youth and Sports Department, Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council and those involved for giving us the opportunity to join the recent SEA Games in Singapore,” she said.

Sharing this sentiment, her fellow teammate Syuhaidah Hj Syukri said it was her first time to witness the parade yesterday as a sign of undivided loyalty to His Majesty and expected more crowds during the Majlis Ramah Mesra throughout all four districts next week.

The Brunei Times