Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha yesterday attended the finals of the 9th Women's Council Badminton Patron's Trophy held at the Indoor Stadium in Berakas.

Her Majesty is the patron of the tournament, which is open to women badminton players who are in the associations under the Women's Council.

Also in attendance at yesterday's event were HRH Princess Hjh Majeedah Nuurul Bulqiah and HRH Princess Hjh Masna.

This year six associations under the Women's Council participated in the tournament. The six associations are PERTIWI, Brunei Darussalam Girl Guides Association (PPPBD), PERBEKAL, PGGMB, Women's Institute (WI) and Women Graduates Association (PSW).

The opening of the Patron's Trophy badminton tournament was held on March 6 at the Menglait Sports Complex and weekly tournaments were held until the finals yesterday.

In her speech, the President of Women's Council said the tournament this year was divided into three categories to give women of all ages from youths to seniors a chance to participate.

"With participation in sport events like this, it not only gives us a good physical state and an active frame of mind, but it can also cut down government expenses in preventing chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease and many more," she added.

The event yesterday saw the finals between PERTIWI and WI in three of the categories namely 20-34 years old, 35-49 years old and 50 years and above.

The overall champions for the Patron's Trophy was WI that won in all three categories.

PERTIWI came in second place followed by PGGMB in third place in the semi finals beating the Brunei Darussalam Girl Guides Association (PPPBD).

During the event Her Majesty was also introduced to the team captains of the participating teams and later presented the prizes and trophies to the winners.

This year the Patron's Trophy Badminton Tournament was organised by BAKTI (Badan Kebajikan Isteri-Isteri Angkatan Bersenjata Diraja Brunei), which is an organisation also under the Women's Council. - Borneo Bulletin (6th Apr 2009)