Hokkien Association opens new HQ in Kiulap
Story & pix by Achong Tanjong

A lion dance welcomes Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Dato Awang Haji Abd. Rahman to inaugurate the Brunei Hokkien Association new headquarters building in Kg. Kiulap, Gadong yesterday morning 

The minister and other VIPs at the Hokkien Association ceremony yesterday

The Hokkien community, with its wide experience in business, was urged to link up in cooperation with the Malay community in guiding as well as to upgrade their ability for a joint contribution to the country's economy. This effort will strengthen the unity and cooperation that brought together happiness and harmony to all subject and residents in the country, Minister of Industry and Primary Resources Pehin Dato Awang Haji Abd. Rahman said during a ceremony to officiate the Brunei Hokkien Association Headquarters building in Kg.Kiulap, Gadong, yesterday morning.

He also hoped that, with the official opening of the Hokkien Association Headquarters, it would set an example and encourage other communities in the country to strengthen cooperation among themselves in order to form an integrated nation.

He noted that the Hokkien community is one of the dominant Chinese communities in the country. He said the community has an ancient history traced back to the arrival of businessmen and travellers who first came from the Xiamen district in China. The fruits of labour by these early entrepreneurs can be seen today as some of them and their descendants have opened several commercial complexes while some have become corporate members and captains of industry as well as well-known professional members, he said.

The minister added that apart from their thriving businesses, the Hokkien community today also take an active role in social and welfare activities such as the National Day celebration, His Majesty's birthday celebration and in social affairs. This not only reflected a good entrepreneurial image among the Hokkiens but also the Tiong Hwa community at large in the field of business and who have shown their responsible duty as subject and resident of the country.

The Hokkien inauguration was attended by more than 500 guests including senior government officers as well as foreign diplomats and other oversea associations, including those from China, Singapore, Sarawak, Sabah and also from other Chinese associations in the country.

At the function, the minister also presented a plaque to Executive members of Association Pro team and toured the new building.

Courtesy of Sunday Bulletin