British Pop Idol Gates To Perform For Tsunami  Victims
By Huraizah Ahmad

Bandar Seri Begawan – Gareth Gates, one of UK's favourite pop idols, who came to woo Bruneians at the previously scheduled sold out New Year countdown yesterday revealed his plan for a whole new performance to collect funds for Asia's victims.

The New Year countdown was not pushed through to respect His Majesty the Sultan's decision cancelling celebratory events in the wake of the tsunami disaster.

Though popular with his song `I've got no, no self control', the Bradford born star who rose to stardom from childhood appeared to be very much in control when he determinedly said that he was relieved not to be singing when half of Asia was in mourning.

"I respect His Majesty's decision to cancel the events and I believe that it certainly was the right move when half of the region is in mourning. My heart goes out to all victims affected by the tragedy," he said.

He also added that he would plan a charity show later back home to collect funds for the victims.

Accompanied by other scheduled performers such as AF2 stars, Anita Sarawak and Aznil Nawawi, Gareth Gates expressed admiration for the monarch for putting a stop to all celebratory events as Asia confronted its worst disaster.

Asian diva Anita Sarawak meanwhile pledged to even give the proceeds of her cookery book to the tsunami relief. She also said she is planning a charity concert to collect funds for the victims.

"My heart goes out to all the victims and their families who have suffered the disaster and my husband and I have plans ahead for a charity event to collect funds to help them out in any way we can," said Anita who was scheduled to leave tomorrow.

Aznil Nawawi, who was previously scheduled to host the Hotel's New Year events, said that they had mixed feelings of coming here to perform in the first place when they heard about the extent of the disaster and how their own homeland was affected by it.

"But now we are so very thankful to Brunei for sharing our concerns and supporting during time of our tragedy," he said.

"Several events in Malaysia has also been put on hold following the disaster, including the AF2 tour scheduled for January 2005," said Kaer an AF2 performer.

"We will hold some charity events to raise funds after we return home and we are certainly thinking of collaborating with other Malaysian artistes to perhaps record a single to collect more funds," he added.

"I would like to take this opportunity to thank our local fans for their understanding and support," he added.

Meanwhile General manager of Empire Hotel also said that they were deeply saddened by the tragic events of the last few days which affected Asia. She said the owners and team members of the hotel expresses their deepest heartfelt sympathy and condolences to the victims and their families.

She also hoped their guests will understand and respect the Hotel's decision on the events.-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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