Brunei Celebrates Sultan’s 78th Birthday with Traditional Prayer Ceremony

KIARONG – In a profound display of national reverence and celebration, His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah marked his 78th birthday with a ceremonial prayer at Jame’ ‘Asr Hassanil Bolkiah Mosque on the afternoon of 14th July. The event was a focal point of the nationwide celebrations, featuring key members of the royal family and several high-ranking officials.

According to Radio Television Brunei, the ceremony included the Mass Fardu Maghrib and Sunat Hajat Prayers, followed by the Reading of Doa Kesyukuran, all dedicated to praying for the Sultan’s longevity and prosperity. Among those in attendance were His Majesty’s sons—His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah—as well as His Majesty’s brother.

The Sultan was welcomed by several dignitaries, including Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris, the Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara; Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmaddin, Minister of Home Affairs and Chairman of the National Committee for the Royal Birthday Celebration; and other key ministers like the Minister of Religious Affairs and the Second Minister of Defence.

The prayer leader, Yang Berhormat Pehin Orang Kaya Paduka Seri Utama Dato Paduka Seri Setia Haji Awang Salim, led the ceremonies, emphasizing the blessings sought from Allah Subahanahu Wata’ala for His Majesty’s health and continued leadership. The celebrations are set to continue with the traditional Grand Royal Birthday Parade on 15th July, followed by an Audience and Investiture Ceremony, further highlighting the national and ceremonial importance of the occasion.