Pixmen out in force to capture moment

THERE was definitely no shortage of shutterbugs that swarmed the Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien here yesterday.

Photographers and photo bloggers were out in full force, carrying various lenses and extra memory cards, to capture the special moments where the country's beloved ruler met with his subjects.

Among the crowd of photographers, one in particular, a female photo blogger by the name of Ena stood out. She headed out to the celebration yesterday to add to her existing collection of memorable photos as well as to have personal pictures of His Majesty.

She said that she had been at the Taman since 6am to capture pictures of the atmosphere. Another reason for her attendance yesterday was to get pictures for the photographic competition organised by The Brunei Times in conjunction with His Majesty's 62nd birthday celebrations.

Ena told The Brunei Times that she had only recently become interested in photography and that the competition was a great way for her to brush up her skills.

Marketa Karlova, a Czechoslovakian woman on a visit to the country was also busy capturing the events on film. She said that photography was her hobby and that she posted the pictures on the Internet.

She was delighted to be in the Sultanate for His Majesty's birthday. She had taken many pictures of the monarch as he greeted the crowds of well-wishers.

Marketa hopes that she will be able to come back for more events in Brunei, as it was full of colour and also to capture the smiling faces of Bruneians.

Amid the throng of shutterbugs was Fadhillah Sulaiman, another photo blogger who attended yesterday's event as well as the one held on July 15.

He said that he arrived in the capital at 6am along with other photographers from the Brunei Forever Forum.

Fadhillah will also be trying his luck at the photographic competition. He hopes that by participating he will be able to learn more and gain extra exposure.

One of those who performed at the celebrations, Nurul Wafa Mohd, said that she was excited to be able to perform live in front of the thousands of people and especially His Majesty.

"It's like my gift for His Majesty," she said excitedly.

She said that this was the best way she could help in celebrating the momentous occasion. She said she was thrilled to be able to see His Majesty and personally wish him Happy Birthday.

Local spectators during the event particularly enjoyed the Wushu and Malay martial arts performance this year and especially looked forward to shake hands with His Majesty during the event. The Brunei Times