Bandar Seri Begawan - The National Flag is the pride of the nation as it represents the symbol of the nation`s sovereignty. The flag is an important channel to instil and raise the spirit of patriotism and love for the nation.
Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (Rtd) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Hj Daud, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, said this at the Flag Hoisting ceremony to mark the start of Brunei Darussalam`s 24th National Day celebration, at the open area of Yayasan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex, yesterday morning.
"During the National Day celebratory period, every citizen and resident of the country should behave positively and show their patriotism spirit by raising the national flag in their respective villages and Mukims, houses and business premises around the country," added the minister.
Dato Paduka Awg Hj Jemat bin Hj Ampal, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, in his capacity as the Chairman of the Organising Committee, expressed his gratitude to those involved in yesterday`s event.
Twenty-one Royal Brunei Navy Personnel then marched into the open area to hoist the giant 24 feet by 12 feet national flag atop the 110-feet tall flagpole after receiving the flag from the minister.
The Royal Brunei Police Band played "Allah Peliharakan Sultan" as the flag was raised.
The minister later distributed flags and the 24th National Day posters to representatives of all district offices.
Source: www.brudirect.com (11 Februari 2008)
