His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and members of the royal family yesterday witnessed a colourful performance at the Tutong District’s get-together ceremony.

Held at the field of Tutong District Civic Centre Complex, some 340 performers carried out a lively performance themed ‘Raja Berdaulat Kesayangan Rakyat’, to express gratitude for being blessed with a monarch who loves the people and reigns the country with faith and piety.

According to co-chair of the performance Muhammad Amir bin Haji Umarali, “This year, Tutong District presented a musical drama with the concept of an open-theatre that tells folk stories of village life through songs and dances.”

He wished for the continued good health and wise leadership of His Majesty.

Taking the main stage were five local singers, namely weapons engineer at the Royal Brunei Navy Abdul Azim bin Ahmad Fadzillah, videographer Muhammad Asyraaf bin Haji Alihan, assistant producer at Radio Television Brunei Muhamad Shahminan bin Mohd Yunos, public servant at the Tutong District Office Noraisah binti Osman and education officer at the Ministry of Education Suzanna binti Haji Maidin.

Abdul Azim, who performed for the first time in the ceremony, said, “I feel excited and proud to be given the opportunity and trust to perform before His Majesty and members of the royal family. We have been practising for this big day since May.”

He added, “I think this year’s songs were quite challenging because they were all newly created except for the Joget Seri Kenangan. In addition, we also had to act because it was a musical drama.”

He also wished His Majesty a happy birthday and for His Majesty to continue to be blessed with good health and continue to rule with faith and honour.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin