Sunday, January 22, 2012

Regatta participants greeted with cultural show at BSB Waterfront

By Fadhil Yunus

International contingents and participants who will be competing in the Regatta Brunei Darussalam 2012 were entertained to some of Brunei richest cultural performances at the BSB Waterfront last night in a cultural reception.

Present as guest of honour at the event was the Minister of Home Affairs, Pehin Udana Khatib Dato Paduka Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin bin Pengarah Dato Paduka Hj Othman. Never short of wise words, the minister encouraged those present last night to show their pride and passion and to strive to be honoured as countrymen and countrywomen.

In a motivational speech that shed light on the minister's own experiences in the old days of the Regatta, Pehin Dato Ustaz Hj Awg Badaruddin said, "We should feel proud and appreciate the identity of our beloved country. The Regatta will truly mark a memorable occasion, bringing back past memories and showing how much Kg Ayer and BSB has evolved since.

"The current generation should make their passions known in that they will be able to witness the experience of the Regatta," the minister added.

Last night's cultural performances received overwhelming response as nearly all of the seats were occupied even before the arrival of the guest of honour.

The international delegates also witnessed some of the country's popular and traditional dances and poetry-inspired music, with performers dressed in full traditional attire. The dances include the "Tarian Alai Asyik", "Brunei Indung Anak Indung Bunga Ku" and "Medley Cabuk-Cabuk Mukun Menyubuh", to name a few.

The cultural performances also showed signs of encouragement in the artistic development and growth of youths who created plenty of excitement among the audience, while at the same time keeping their poise and composure.

Among those present at the cultural event was Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Hj Awg Halbi bin Hj Mohd Yussof, the Deputy Minister of Home Affairs who is also the Chairman of the High-Level Committee Regatta Brunei Darussalam 2012.

Today marks one of the historical dates of the year as the Regatta Brunei Darussalam takes stage for the first time in 20 years.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin Sunday
.
.

No comments: