BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The annual royal birthday banquet at Brunei's Istana Nurul Iman continues to be a highly anticipated occasion, bringing together invited guests from across society to celebrate and honour Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah’s birthday.
Held in conjunction with the Sultan’s 80th birthday celebration, the banquet on Thursday (July 16) evening offered guests a memorable opportunity to share in the joyous occasion while expressing their appreciation for the monarch’s leadership and service to the nation.
Speaking to The Bulletin, several guests described the invitation as a meaningful honour and a moment they would treasure.
Brandon Tay said he felt deeply honoured and humbled to be invited to attend the Sultan’s 80th birthday banquet.
Brandon shared that he had been fortunate to attend the event with his grandparents over the years and hoped to continue the tradition in the future.
Reflecting on what he admired most about the Sultan, he highlighted the monarch’s dedication to the people of Brunei.
“Throughout the years, His Majesty has led the nation with wisdom, compassion and humility, always placing the wellbeing of the rakyat first,” he said, adding that the Sultan's lifelong service and leadership continue to inspire generations of Bruneians.
Haslinda Abdul Hamid described the invitation as a great honour and a moment she would always cherish.
“I feel truly honoured and grateful to receive the invitation. It is a once-a-year opportunity and a proud moment for both my husband and me,” she said.
She added that the banquet was a privilege and a memorable experience, while expressing admiration for the Sultan's caring leadership, wisdom and commitment towards the nation’s peace, development and the welfare of the people.
Meanwhile, Village Head of Kampung Penanjong, Tutong, Mohd Ariffin Akip, said he was delighted to once again be invited to the royal celebration.
Mohd Ariffin, who previously served as a government photographer, recalled covering royal events at Istana Nurul Iman, including investiture ceremonies and birthday banquets.
He said the invitation carries special significance for village heads as it reflects the monarch's appreciation towards citizens and public servants.
“What I admire most about His Majesty is that he is truly berjiwa rakyat (people-oriented). He is always close to his subjects, genuinely concerned about their wellbeing and takes the time to interact with the people,” he said.
He also conveyed his prayers for the Sultan's continued good health, longevity and blessings, and for the monarch to continue leading Brunei Darussalam.
“It is our first time attending His Majesty’s birthday banquet, and it is especially meaningful as it coincides with His Majesty’s 80th birthday. It is a great honour and pleasure to be invited to such a grand celebration,” she said.
She described the invitation extended to members of the diplomatic corps as a thoughtful gesture reflecting Brunei’s appreciation for its international partners.
Pushpa also expressed hope that Brunei-India relations would continue to strengthen across various sectors, noting that events such as the banquet provide opportunities to foster greater understanding of Bruneian culture.
“We are always impressed by Bruneian hospitality. People here are so welcoming, especially during Hari Raya and other special occasions,” she said, wishing the Sultan continued good health, happiness and many more years of blessed leadership.
Pengiran Kamarulzaman PHI, who attended the banquet with his siblings, said they were deeply honoured and grateful to be part of the historic celebration.
He described the invitation as a privilege and a meaningful recognition that he and his siblings would always cherish.
“What I admire most about His Majesty is his unwavering dedication, wisdom and compassion in serving the nation. Throughout the years, His Majesty has always placed the wellbeing of the people first while leading the country with stability, peace and prosperity,” he said.
He added that the Sultan's humility, sense of responsibility and commitment to the nation serve as an inspiration to continue striving for excellence, serving with integrity and contributing positively to society. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
