A morning downpour failed to dampen the spirits of an enthusiastic public from joining the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) 47th Anniversary celebrations early yesterday at the Third Battalion, Royal Brunei Land Forces camp in Lumut.

Members of the public showed up ahead of schedule to be on time for the mass parade and also took the opportunity to greet His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam who had consented to grace the event.

His Majesty, who is also the Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, arrived by helicopter at the newly-constructed camp and was greeted upon arrival by Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Awg Hj Mohammad Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Deputy Minister of Defence and Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Hj Md Yussof, Commander of Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

At the field, His Majesty received a royal salute and proceeded to inspect the guard of honour comprising 1,547 personnel from various RBAF units.

Later the mass parade commanded by the Parade Commander Lieutenant Colonel Haji Abidin bin Haris conducted the slow and fast march, carrying with them His Majesty's and RBAF regimental flags.

After the march past, His Majesty received a royal salute, followed by the RBAF helicopter display.

Later His Majesty viewed a static display by the RBAF Training Institute.

His Majesty next proceeded to the Third Battalion dining hall where the monarch mingled with the corporals and other personnel of the force, reflecting His Majesty's concern of their well-being.

His Majesty also viewed static displays from the RBAF Support Services and Royal Brunei Navy and public, mainly put up by residents of the Belait district.

His Majesty also interacted with the RBAF Senior Non-Commissioning Officers at the Warrant and Sergeant Officer's Mess where His Majesty consented to group photo sessions and signing of royal parchments. - Borneo Bulletin (1st June 2008)