July 16, 2025
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – Expressions of loyalty and national pride filled the capital on Tuesday morning as thousands gathered at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien for the traditional Grand Parade, held in conjunction with the 79th birthday celebration of 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.
Upon arrival at the Taman, His Majesty was greeted with a 21-gun salute while the national anthem resonated in the background played by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces’ band, officially opening the royal birthday celebration.
Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah.
His Majesty later inspected the guard of honour comprising personnel from the Royal Brunei Land Force, Royal Brunei Navy, Royal Brunei Air Force, Royal Brunei Police Force, and members of various government uniformed departments and associations.
The parade continued with a grand march-past by uniformed contingents. Highlights included synchronised slow and fast marching drills, which drew enthusiastic applause from the crowd.
Patriotic cheers echoed through the Taman as the marching participants concluded with three unified chants of “Daulat Kebawah Duli Tuan Patik!” – a solemn proclamation of allegiance and heartfelt wishes for the monarch’s continued reign and well-being.
Capping off the ceremony was a fly-past by Royal Brunei Armed Forces aircraft, trailing colourful plumes of smoke across the sky, symbolising national unity and progress.
Among the dignitaries present were cabinet ministers, state officials, grassroots leaders, and invited guests, many of whom were dressed in traditional attire representing their official roles.
The Grand Parade remains a cherished tradition in Brunei’s royal birthday festivities, honouring the monarch while fostering national identity and unity among citizens. – Fadley Faisal
