Over 1,000 2Js At Reunion Bash
By Lyna Mohamad

Bandar Seri Begawan - Over 1,000 family members of Jalak and Jafar (2J) turned up for a family reunion yesterday, in conjunction with the Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebrations, which also saw several elder members receive awards for their contributions to the family.

The reunion bash, held at the Plenary Hall, International Convention Centre in Berakas, was a joyous affair as family members greeted each other, some for the first time.

The event had long been in the pipeline, which was only realised yesterday after the organising committee, chaired by Pehin Dato Hj Abd Ghani Pehin Datu Hj Abdul Rahim, did an extensive research on the family tree and tracked down all the known members.

Pehin Dato Hj Abd Ghani, in his welcoming speech yesterday, said the committee, with assistance from some of the family members, carried out several campaigns aimed at informing other members of the gathering, which included a roadshow in Temburong District, where the 2J family originates from.

It was at the roadshow, he said, that some of the senior members of the family shed tears and urged the committee to ensure the event was held as soon as possible, before their lives ended.

He also relayed the hardship of the past generations, and reminded younger members that without the elderly, they would be nobody today.

He also noted that a publication on the 2J family will be launched, which will outline the family tree as well as its entire history.

He added that the gathering will be made an annual event to ensure the family ties are further strengthened.

The chairman also called on family members to unite towards developing the nation, and hoped the family will become an exemplary unit for others to follow.

Among the family members that were present at yesterday's gathering was Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Pehin Major General (Rtd) Dato Awg Hj Mohammad Hj Daud, who was later given the honour to present the four most senior members of the family with souvenirs.

Apart from a sumptuous buffet, guests were also presented with a slideshow of memorable pictures of the 2J family as well as being entertained by performances by some of their kin. -- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin

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