People behind BRIDEX success get pat on back

WITH the closing of BRIDEX 2009, those involved can now celebrate a great national achievement together and enjoy the fruits of their labour as they have just witnessed history in the making.

These and other remarks were heard from the Deputy Minister of Defence Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar yesterday evening during the BRIDEX 2009 Appreciation Dinner at the Royal Berkshire Hall in Jerudong Polo Club.

In his speech, the deputy minister also conveyed His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam's satisfaction and sincerest appreciation to everyone involved in the running and handling of BRIDEX 2009 by saying that His Majesty is indeed very happy and proud of all of them.

The deputy minister also conveyed messages of satisfaction from His Majesty King Abdullah II, who said that he was delighted and impressed with how the event turned out.

"This coupled with all the positive comments from exhibitors, delegates and visitors should be enough to make all of you swell with great pride and yet feel humbled by the amount of appreciation that has come through," said the deputy minister.

The appreciation dinner began with a simple reception among the guests comprising organisers and staff of the BRIDEX 2009 as well as senior officials from both the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) and the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).

The dinner was also attended by the Commander of RBAF, Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General Dato Paduka Seri Hj Halbi Hj Md Yussof as well as commanding officers from all forces.

During the dinner, the deputy minister was also able to comment on various aspects of the BRIDEX 2009 and expressed his own great satisfaction at the success of the event.

The deputy minister said that along the way, he received both positive and negative comments from those that visited BRIDEX, which he very much appreciated.

"With such concentrated efforts, hopefully we will be able to make BRIDEX 2011 an even bigger success," said the deputy minister.

The dinner was attended by more than 500 participants comprising both the RBAF and RBPF personnel, BRIDEX 2009 volunteers, invited guests, sponsors and organisers from Royal Brunei Technical Services. The Brunei Times