During His Majesty's birthday celebration each year, locals and foreigners alike would flock to the capital to visit the night market and witness the amazing sequence of events unfold as well as admire the colourful streets during the auspicious occasion.

Twenty Labuan Black Eagle Riders arrived in the sultanate for a three-day visit to witness His Majesty's birthday celebration. They are a group of bikers, mostly enthusiasts of the Harley Davidson motorcycles and the Honda Goldwing, among others.

Members of the Darussalam Motorcycle Association (PEMODA) and Harley Owners Group Brunei Chapter (HOG Brunei Chapter) greeted the bikers upon arrival in the Brunei border. They will also be accompanying the group during their stay in the sultanate.

The group, led by Dato Suhaili Abdul Rahman said that the visit was not only to foster closer relations with fellow bikers in Brunei Darussalam, in particular members of PEMODA and HOG Brunei Chapter, but to also witness the celebration of the Monarch's birthday.

He then added that the condition of the Brunei roads are excellent. The group leader also highlighted that despite the H1N1 epidemic, they decided to venture to Brunei nonetheless for the sake of fostering brotherhood. He proudly explained the close brotherhood between Brunei and Labuan, developed through the love of bikes between the biker associations.

Dato Suhali said that visiting the sultanate during the Monarch's 63rd birthday was an amazing treat for them as they are able to experience the warm and amazing atmosphere during the occasion while enjoying the festivities nationwide.

Hosting the welcoming dinner for the visiting guests was Sri Sentosa, the Harley Davidson dealer. Also in attendance were Exco committee members of PEMODA and HOG Brunei Chapter.

The black eagles embarked on a tour to Tutong and Kuala Belait yesterday and were accompanied by PEMODA members. The group is co-hosted by PEMODA and HOG Brunei Chapter. Throughout their three-day visit, the group will also have the opportunity to explore the wonders of Brunei while enjoying the local cuisine.

The bikers were also given a short briefing on road safety and regulations by ASO Inspector, Ismail from the Belait Traffic Control Department, Royal Brunei Police Force. He emphasised that the convoy must not break, and must be between police escorts, which have been graciously provided by the Royal Brunei Police Force.

The Black Eagle Riders commented that the hospitality showered by members of PEMODA, HOG Brunei Chapter and the Harley Davidson dealer was exceptional, not to mention the courtesy given by the Royal Brunei Police Force in providing a police escort for their convoy rides in the sultanate. - Borneo Bulletin (20th July 2009)