BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN, Friday 1 July 2016 – The flag hoisting ceremony to mark the start of nationwide celebrations of the 70th birthday of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni AlMarhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam was held today at the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex’s open area in the heart of the capital.
Twenty personnel from the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) was led by Lieutenant Junior Grade Ahmad Nafees who marched into the ground where they received the giant national flag measuring 3.7m x 7.3m from Guest of Honour Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Kerna Dato Seri Setia Dr. Haji Awang Abu Bakar bin Haji Apong, Minister of Home Affairs, who is also the chairman of the national committee for His Majesty’s 70th birthday celebration.
Excitement filled the air as 70 flag-bearers comprising personnel from the Prisons Department and the Fire and Rescue Department marched into the ceremonial ground, accompanied by the drum beats of the Royal Brunei Police Force’s Brass Band.
The flag was slowly raised to the national anthem “Allah Peliharakan Sultan” sung by a choir comprising staff members from Language and Literature Bureau, Bandar Seri Begawan (BSB) Municipal Department and Fire and Rescue Departmen.
The national flag hoisting ceremony also marks the beginning of flying the national flag at every household and residence.
Flying of the national flag nationwide during the period of His Majesty’s birthday celebration is hoped to raise awareness on the nation and strengthen the spirit of patriotism and love for the government and the monarchy.
