Sultan of Brunei Darussalam ordered to open Istana Nurul Iman for the public gathering of Eid-ul-Fitr celebration for the common man to enjoy feast and gifts.
To ensure smooth-running of the Audience and Junjung Ziarah ceremony, officers and staff from various government and private sectors were assigned to carry out duties according to their respective field.
Today on 29th June 2017 was the 3rd day of celebration, his Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Saleha binti Al-Marhum received in audience and junjung ziarah from the citizens and residents in the country.
In Brunei, junjung ziarah is a monarch get-together ceremony. His majesty along with all the members of Royal family received in audience and Junjung Ziarah from the male well-wishers meanwhile her majesty Saleha accompanying her daughters, sisters and her grandchildren received in audience and junjung ziarah from the female well-wishers.
In accordance with some Brunei Officials, it was announced that “among the well-wishers who come in the morning are officers and staff of various ministries including the Prime Minister’s Office, government officers and Royal Brunei Armed Forces personnel.”
Registration of the visitors was orderly and systematically carried out to ensure the smooth-running of the ceremony. The efficiency of several staff in charge of the registration and distribution of coupons section played a role in ensuring that all went well as planned.
Among the visitors on the first day Istana Nurul Iman was opened today, were senior citizens and people with special needs. Special treatment was provided for these people to ensure their comfort, including providing special areas for them to enjoy food and drink comfortably.
According to Brunei official News Agency, in the morning, about 18 thousand 930 well-wishers went to the Istana for the Eid-ul-Fitr celebrations.
“Visiting Istana Nurul Iman in a joyous festive atmosphere is an opportunity which does not normally come on normal days.
“During this Eid-ul-Fitr, visitors get a chance to visit the Istana, greet and meet their beloved ruler and the Royal Family to convey their Eid greetings.”
“Open Istana” visit at Istana Nurul Iman has been a joyous event for visitors from all walks of life, different races and religions to have an audience and convey Eid greetings to His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri as well as members of the royal family, as a sign of close relations between the royals and people in the country.
It is noted that every step the visitors took during the visit to Istana Nurul Iman received due attention from those duty so that they could really feel the beautiful experience and remember the sweet moment forever.
For the visitors’ convenience, a shuttle bus service was provided for their transport to and from Istana Nurul Iman.
Despite of that, security personnel were also on hand to ensure the safety and comfort of the visitors were properly lined-up.
Defense Minister of Brunei Darussalam Sultan Omer Ali told that the visitors as guests would first have the chance to enjoy various special cuisines laid out for them and served by the catering staff with their warm hospitality.
Those on duty from several sections and units of the Ministry of Health were also ready to provide their medical service to the visitors.
According to some officials, a number of medical officers and staff were led by experienced doctors are placed on duty at several locations at Istana Nurul Iman when the palace is open for the public to visit during Open Istana on the 2nd, 3rd and 4th day of Eid-ul-Fitr.
Those on duty at the souvenir distribution section also contribute towards the smooth management of Eid celebration at Istana Nurul Iman. Combination and coordination of efforts by various agencies have made the ceremony a success and ensured the visitors safety and comfort throughout the visit.
The tradition of visiting one another during the festive season could instill solidarity and strengthen relations among the Muslim Ummah.
That celebration would be memorable for those who were orphans, single mothers; special needs people and senior citizens that morning received donations from a benevolent sector in the country. Nearly 200 people received donations so that they share enjoyment of Eid.
Correspondent: Syeda Faiza Bukhari
