By Lyna Mohammad
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Mr Marcus Hurry giving a welcome speech.
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Pehin Dato Dr Hj Awang Hussain (2nd L), the Minister of
Culture, Youth and Sports is among the guests attending
the function.
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Some of the VIPs at the function.
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HSBC staff presenting a Hari Raya song.
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A night of relaxed and fun atmosphere, with a blend of excellent
food and five-star entertainment, the Hongkong and Shanghai
Banking Corporation Limited (HSBC) last Saturday night
celebrated Hari Raya Dinner with over 400 clients at the Royal
Berkshire Banquet Hall of the Jerudong Park Country Club.
Mr Marcus Hurry, CEO of HSBC
Brunei, noted that the bank regards itself as a guest of Brunei,
since it first opened a branch in the capital, then known as
Bandar Brunei. And it was his role to ensure that the tradition
of long term support and involvement in the business and social
community of Brunei continues in a totally committed way and the
need to balance commercial interests with involvement in the
wider community particularly with those that have special needs.
Being the key supporter of
several charitable initiatives that help the poor and the
disadvantaged, HSBC has supported associations such as Pusat
Ehsan Al Ameerah Al Hajah Maryam, Special Education Department,
welfare services unit of MCYS and Special Children's Association
of KACA and PAPDA.
Mr Hurry has learned that
Brunei Darussalam continues to play an active role in various
regional and international forums, notably the APEC 2002 in
Mexico and ASEAN summit in Bangkok, which are important steps,
particularly in fostering greater economic cooperation and in
making the Sultanate an attractive destination for foreign
investors.
"I should let you know
that I ask my management team, when they travel on business, to
be not only ambassadors for HSBC but equally important
ambassadors for Brunei, and be able to educate those unfamiliar
with the country on its business characteristics and
opportunities here," he said.
He further added, "We hope
the New Year 2003 will bring the best for you all and for Brunei
as a whole. At HSBC, we look forward to working together with
you all in accomplishing success in the country's economic
progress and prosperity."
Members of the royal families,
cabinet and deputy ministers, permanent secretaries, senior
government officials and prominent corporate figures, among
those who attended the dinner, were entertained by the Malaysian
comedian and singer, Farouk Hussain, as well as a wide range of
songs and dances from talented HSBC staff.
As in any other Hari Raya
gatherings, the highlight of the event was the lucky draw, which
offered attractive prizes such as air ticket to Dubai and
Surabaya, electrical items and Nokia mobile phones.
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