HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam consented yesterday to send a congratulatory message to Indonesian President Dato Laila Utama Dr Hj Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono, as well as to the Government and people of Indonesia on the occasion of the 69th Independence Day of the Republic of Indonesia.

In the message to the president, His Majesty said he was grateful and deeply appreciative of the contributions and close relations achieved between the two countries.

The monarch also expressed hopes the friendship and brotherly ties long-established between Brunei and Indonesia would continue to be sustained and be further enhanced, and strengthened at the bilateral and regional levels for mutual benefit in time to come.

His Majesty and Her Majesty Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha also took the opportunity to extend their festive greetings to Dato Laila Utama Dr Hj Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono and Datin Ibu Hajah Ani, as well as to their family and the people of Indonesia.

His Majesty also prays to Allah the Almighty that the president and his family would always be in good health, and under His protection, that the people of Indonesia would enjoy lasting peace and prosperity.

Meanwhile, His Royal Highness Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade, also sent a similar message of congratulations to his counterpart, Dr RM Marty M Natalegawa, the Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Indonesia.

His Royal Highness sent his warmest congratulations to him, the Government and people of Indonesia on their independence day celebration.

His Royal Highness said, “It was a pleasure meeting you in Nay Pyi Taw recently, and I greatly valued you insights and contributions during our discussions.

“Indonesia has long been a much valued partner in Brunei’s development and we look forward to strengthening this goodwill and the warm friendship shared by our people,” His Royal Highness said.

His Royal Highness also sent his kindest regards and best wishes to him and his family, and to the people of Indonesia for a very happy independence day and a joyous Aidilfitri celebration. - Borneo Bulletin (17 August 2014)