Temburong residents laud progress

However, see need for some changes

RESIDENTS from the Temburong District have lauded progress made in various areas during the 28th National Day, but mentioned that there's still room for improvements in other aspects.

Hj Abdul Rahim, a retired police official, said that while the performances for this year's celebration have been good to watch, the marching parade should be participated by more members from their respective associations.

"For example, there are usually more members from the Association of Retired RBPF Officers or Persatuan Anggota Polis Diraja Yang Bersara (Polsara), participating in the National Day parade, but this year there are only about 40 members present," he said.

In relation to national flag-waving activities, the former sergeant major said that it is definitely better in comparison to previous years.

"Patriotism is evident from the waving of the national flag. The flags this year seem to be in great condition compared to before, when some would even display their old and torn flags," he said.

Meanwhile, the penghulu of Mukim Bukok praised the celebration as it reflects the nation's MIB philosophy.

He said that the National Day celebration's nature is different to other countries because a lot of focus is given to the religious and cultural aspect.

"In turn, that defines the country for what it really is," said Hj Emran Hj Sabtu, referring to the marching parades, which involved people from different cultures, but all representing Brunei.

He then noted that the ongoing cooperation between the organising parties in making the event a success is definitely commendable as the celebrations keep getting better every year.

In terms of the patriotic spirit, the penghulu feels that the young generation do not experience it as much as the elders do.

Hj Emran, a faithful commuter to the National Day celebrations since 1984, suggested that the young generation needs to know the true meaning of independence in order to experience the same patriotic vigour.

He said that this story must be taught and emphasised so that they (the young generation) can collectively embrace the idea of love for the monarch, nation and the people. The Brunei Times