BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – The Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, together with Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Hajjah Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, arrived safely in Brunei Darussalam on 14 July to attend the 80th birthday celebration of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah.
The couple departed earlier from Hornbill Skyways Terminal in Kuching, accompanied by Deputy Premier of Sarawak Datuk Amar Haji Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and his wife, Dato Hajah Dayang Morliah binti Datuk Haji Awang Daud. Their presence underscores Sarawak’s commitment to strengthening ties with Brunei through shared cultural and diplomatic engagements.
Upon arrival at 12.10 pm, the Sarawak delegation was warmly welcomed by senior Brunei officials. Among those present were Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Awang Haji Halbi bin Haji Md Yussof, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister of Defence II, accompanied by Datin Paduka Hajah Kalthum binti Haji Apong.
Also in attendance were Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan, Commissioner of the Royal Brunei Police Force Dato Seri Pahlawan Sulaiman bin Aliddin, and Permanent Secretary in the Prime Minister’s Department Awang Ajman bin Haji Meludin, together with their spouses.
Immediately after the reception, Tun Pehin Sri was accorded the honour of inspecting the Royal Brunei Guard of Honour before proceeding to official accommodation. The ceremonial welcome highlighted the importance Brunei places on its relationship with Sarawak.
The visit was made at the official invitation of the Government of Brunei Darussalam. Tun Pehin Sri and Toh Puan are scheduled to attend several official functions and ceremonies in conjunction with the Sultan’s 80th birthday celebration. The milestone marks His Majesty’s long reign and enduring leadership, which has been a cornerstone of Brunei’s stability and prosperity.
This official visit reflects the close friendship and cooperation that has long existed between Sarawak and Brunei. Both sides share historical, cultural and economic ties, and the occasion provides an opportunity to further enhance bilateral relations for mutual benefit.
Tun Pehin Sri and Toh Puan expressed their hopes that the visit would proceed smoothly and contribute to strengthening the already close relationship between Sarawak and Brunei. Their participation in the celebrations demonstrates Sarawak’s respect for Brunei’s monarchy and its commitment to fostering regional unity.
The Sultan of Brunei, who has ruled since 1967, is recognised as one of the world’s longest-serving monarchs. His leadership has been marked by continuity and stability, with Brunei maintaining strong diplomatic partnerships across Southeast Asia. The 80th birthday celebration is not only a tribute to his reign but also an opportunity for neighbouring states such as Sarawak to reaffirm their ties with Brunei.
Sarawak’s representation at the event highlights the importance of regional diplomacy and cultural exchange. By attending such ceremonies, Sarawak demonstrates its commitment to building bridges with neighbouring nations and strengthening political and social bonds.
The visit also reflects a broader tradition of mutual respect between Sarawak and Brunei. Over the years, both governments have collaborated on matters ranging from trade and investment to education and cultural exchange. The official invitation extended to Sarawak’s leadership underscores Brunei’s appreciation of these ties and its desire to continue fostering goodwill.
As the celebrations continue, the presence of Sarawak’s leaders in Bandar Seri Begawan serves as a reminder of the shared heritage and values that unite the two regions. The visit is expected to pave the way for further cooperation, ensuring that Sarawak and Brunei continue to benefit from their longstanding relationship.
