| Aziz Idris |
AROUND 14 tourists from Texas, USA, witnessed the national-level Maulud Nabi celebrations at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien (Taman SOAS) yesterday.
They expressed their amazement for the Sultanate’s strong faith in Islam.
The group was also impressed with His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam leading the procession to finish the 3.7 kilometre walk, despite being nearly 70 years old.
“This is definitely a learning experience for us, especially coming far away from home in Texas.
“The unique blend of the Islamic faith and Malay culture, and seeing participation from all walks of life shows a perfect example of devotion and unity of the people in Brunei,” said group leader, David Thompson, from EthnoTreks.
A group of tourist from Texas, USA witnessing the national-level Maulud Nabi celebration at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien. – AZIZ IDRIS
Brad, who has visited Brunei before, praised the determination of those taking part in the procession.
“I personally love the colours of the traditional attire (Baju Cara Melayu) worn by the young and the old, who eagerly braved the morning heat in the two-hour long event,” he said.
Equipped with cameras, the Americans took snaps of the scene at Taman SOAS, especially when the capital reverberated with the sound of the customary 21-gun salute, by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.
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