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Giant Flag Raises Patriotic Fervour
By Yusrin Junaidi & Za'im Zaini

Bandar Seri Begawan - The country's flag is worthy to be made as an important mediator to raise spirits of patriotism and lovefor the country and nation, wherever it is hoisted, whether in the region or international arena, symbolising the greatness of the nation's determination andspirit to protect as well as instil the sovereignty of the nation and the country.

Pehin Orang Kaya Seri Dewa Major General (B) Dato Seri Pahlawan Awang Haji Mohammad bin Haji Daud, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, yesterday summed up the importance of the national flag as a giant flag of Brunei Darussalam was raised at the open foyer of Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Foundation in front of Omar Ali Saifuddien Mosque in the capital.

Incessant rain failed to hamper the spirit of over 100 people who came to witness and participate in the event. "It is thus fitting during the 23rd National Day Celebrations that all citizens who reside in the country be more positive in their attitude, show their worth and spirit of patriotism by hoisting the nation's flag in villages, mukims, residential areas and commercial areas in all districts.

"This positive attitude (of the citizens) is a sign of their belief that this country is the land where they live and serve with loyalty on the right path according to the

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will of Allah SWT.

"What is meant by hoisting the national- flag? When hoisting the national flag, the flag needs to be in,a perfect condition complete with its attitudes, not,wom out or in tatters, dirty or faded. Hoisting a national flag that is not in a good condition runs against the spirit of the nation that symbolises the love for the nation and the country," the minister added.

"The national day will be celebrated accordingly and preparations are under way, including the general assembly on Saturday, February 24.

"The national day celebrations begin with the hoisting of the national flag, which is closely related to the dignity and prestige of the nation. Although it (the flag) is only a fabric with a design and an arrangement of colours, from the point of national spirit, it symbolises the sovereignty of the nation.

"The slogan on the flag 'Sentiasa Membuat Kebajikan Dengan Petunjuk Allah' or `Always in service with God's guidance' will be the guiding light behind the nation's march based on religious principles," the minister said.

Speaking on the National Day celebrations, the guest of honour said, "It will involve all levels of society, including the grass roots level. The celebrations are aimed to project the true image of the nation, strengthen the unity and raise the level of patriotism.

The guest of honour hoped that all programmes would be held in line with the theme of the celebrations - "Iltizam Memperkasa Keupayaan Bangsa" or "Commitment Empowering the Nation's Capabilities".

Earlier Dato Paduka Haji Jemat bin Haji Ampal, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, also in his capacity as chairman of the working committee for the hoisting of the national flag celebration, in his welcoming remarks said, "Let us all ask ourselves the meaning of National Day. It is for the benefit of being

part of the nation and country we reside in and for being a significant stakeholder, feel proud and high in self esteem when making a contribution, even if it is small, during the celebrations."

Yesterday, 20 personnel from the Royal Brunei Navy carried the national flag measuring 24 feet by 12 feet and raised the giant flag, accompanied by the Royal Brunei Police Force band and singing of the National Anthem by 43 members of Brunei Darussalam National Anthem choir "Allah Pelihara Kan Sultan".

The hoisting of the flag signifies the start of the 23rd National Day celebrations and the guest of honour received the flag from the Royal Brunei Navy.

At the end of the ceremony the minister handed over flags and national day posters in conjunction with the National Day celebrations to district officers from all four districts. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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