BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Saturday 15 August 2015 – His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam birthday celebrations began with the traditional Grand Parade at the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital.
The joyous and exciting atmosphere in the capital becomes the focus of every level of the community regardless of their age. They come to join in the happy occasion and witness the traditional Grand Parade in conjunction with His Majesty’s 69th Birthday Anniversary. The cheerful faces of thousands of young students waving little flags and the sound of the Hadrah that echoes along the main route leading to Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien further enlivens the welcome for His Majesty.
Shortly after arriving, His Majesty consented to receive the Royal Salute. A 21 cannon fire echoed, accompanied by the National Anthem.
Gracing the event were His Majesty’s sons and brothers, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, The Crown Prince, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.
Adding significance to the ceremony was the presence of His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s special guests.
The Monarch then consented to inspect the parade which comprised of 855 personnel of the Royal Brunei Land Force, the Royal Brunei Navy, the Royal Brunei Air Force, the Royal Brunei Police Force, government departments and uniformed civilian organisations. The parade was under the command of Lieutenant Colonel Pg Sharifuddin bin Pg Haji Yusof. The presence of these personnel showed their commitment to progress, to be competitive, open minded, determined and committed as well as possessing a united spirit, oneness and solidarity as a team.
The traditional parade’s highlight was a slow and quick march past display in front of the Royal dias. The combined music of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and Royal Brunei Police Force bands accompanied the drill.
The unity and understanding among the personnel depict the true meaning of patriotism and military characteristics. High discipline also creates the appropriate defence strength. As the pillars of defence, their role is to protect and uphold the country, religion and the nation.
The three cheers of “DAULAT KEBAWAH DULI TUAN PATIK” reflect the spirit of the participants and their undivided loyalty to the Monarch.
The climax of the event is the fly past over the capital by the planes and helicopters of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.
