BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN – The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, together with Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi, attended the Ceremony of Receiving and Conferring the Stars of Brunei Darussalam at the Indera Buana Throne Hall, Istana Nurul Iman, on 15 July.
The event formed part of the grand celebrations marking the 80th birthday of His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam. The ceremony was attended by members of the Brunei Royal Family, senior state dignitaries, foreign diplomats, and distinguished guests from across the region.
Sarawak’s Deputy Premier Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan and his wife, Dato Hajah Dayang Morliah Awang Daud, accompanied the Governor and Toh Puan to the occasion, reflecting the importance of Sarawak’s representation at this significant milestone in Brunei’s national history.
The arrival of the Sarawak delegation at Istana Nurul Iman was conducted in accordance with royal protocol, underscoring the respect and esteem shared between the two neighbours. The warm welcome highlighted the enduring friendship and cultural ties that have long connected Sarawak and Brunei.
During the ceremony, Tun Pehin Sri Wan Junaidi and Toh Puan Fauziah had the opportunity to extend their congratulations directly to His Majesty the Sultan and Her Majesty the Queen Mother, Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha. Their presence symbolised Sarawak’s appreciation of Brunei’s leadership and its commitment to strengthening bilateral relations.
The conferral of honours at the Indera Buana Throne Hall is a tradition deeply rooted in Brunei’s royal heritage, recognising contributions to the state and celebrating loyalty and service. For Sarawak, participation in such ceremonies reinforces its diplomatic standing and cultural respect within the region.
Observers noted that the Governor’s attendance at the Sultan’s birthday celebrations and the royal honours ceremony reflects Sarawak’s dedication to fostering closer ties with Brunei. The event provided a platform to reaffirm cooperation in areas such as trade, tourism, education, and cultural exchange.
The Sultan’s 80th birthday is a landmark occasion, marking decades of leadership since his accession to the throne in 1967. His reign has been characterised by stability, economic growth, and the strengthening of Brunei’s international relations. The celebrations, which included audiences, ceremonies, and gatherings, drew dignitaries from across Southeast Asia, highlighting Brunei’s role in regional diplomacy.
For Sarawak, the Governor’s participation in these events demonstrates the state’s commitment to nurturing neighbourly relations and exploring new avenues for collaboration. The ceremony at Istana Nurul Iman not only celebrated Brunei’s royal traditions but also symbolised the shared aspirations of both territories for mutual prosperity and unity.
As Sarawak continues to spotlight its regional partnerships, the Governor’s presence at the royal ceremony in Bandar Seri Begawan stands as a testament to the enduring friendship and cooperation between Sarawak and Brunei Darussalam.
