His Majesty graces health services centennial
By Za'im Zaini

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to attend the centennial celebration of Brunei's health services and launch the health convention at the International Convention Centre (ICC).

Accompanying His Majesty at the event were HRH Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister's Office, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, HRH Prince Hj Sufri Bolkiah, HRH Prince Abdul Malik, HRH Princess Hjh Rashidah Sa'adatul Bolkiah, HRH Princess Hjh Muta-Wakkilah Hayatul Bolkiah and HRH Princess Hjh Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah.

Upon arrival, His Majesty and the royal entourage were greeted by the Minister of Health, Pehin Orang Kaya Indera Pahlawan Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Suyoi bin Haji Osman.

The event began with the singing of the national anthem, and was followed by the recital of the Surah al-Fatihah, doa selamat and al-Quran verses.

The Minister of Health also delivered a welcoming speech.

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam delivered a Titah before officially launching the health convention. His Majesty also cut a cake specially made to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Brunei's health services, while a choir from the Ministry of Health performed.

His Majesty then viewed a multimedia presentation on the Ministry of Health's progress over the years.

The benevolent monarch later presented meritorious appreciation awards to the founders and those who have made major contributions to Brunei's health services. 27 recipients were awarded at the celebration, including two former ministers, Pehin Orang Kaya Laila Wijaya Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Abd Aziz bin Begawan Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Seri Paduka Haji Umar and Dato Paduka Dr Haji Johar bin Dato Paduka Haji Nordin.

The Sultan was also presented with a painting of the old hospital in 1938 as a pesambah, created by local artist Pengiran Dato Paduka Hj Asmali, by the Ministry of Health.

Towards the end of the event, the national anthem was played and His Majesty viewed a health expo exhibition. His Majesty was then presented with a book commemorating Brunei's 100 years of health services.

Prior to departure, His Majesty and the royal entourage consented to receive greetings from the Ministry of Health's personnel. - Borneo Bulletin (16th Nov 2007)


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