Sultan at special mass prayers
By M K Anwar

Foreign dignitaries greeting the Sultan and members of the royal family.

His Majesty and other members of the royal family during prayers. Photos by Hj Md Said Arshad & Rudolf Portillo

His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday consented to attend special mass prayers at Jame' Asr Hassanil Bolkiah, held in conjunction with His Majesty's 58th birthday.

Accompanying His Majesty were His Royal Highness Crown Prince Pg Muda Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, HRH Prince Abdul Azim, HRH Prince Abdul Malik and HRH Prince Abdul Mateen.

Well-wishers flocked to greet His Majesty and the royal family shortly after their arrival at the mosque. In addition, the night also saw thousands of loyal subjects congregating at mosques and suraus nationwide to seek the blessing of Allah the Almighty for His Majesty.

Also in attendance at the special mass prayers were senior government officers and foreign dignitaries. Reading the doa selamat was State Mufti Pehin Dato Seri Setia Ustaz Hj Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.

Meanwhile, the capital will today see the ceremonial Royal Guard of Honour performed by the Royal Brunei Armed Forces and Royal Brunei Police Forces at the Taman Hj Sir Muda Omar Ali Saifuddien.

All four districts will have the opportunity to greet His Majesty during the scheduled get-together ceremony that will be held during the birthday celebration.

Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin