Carnival to revisit Sultanate's heritage

THE second History Carnival will take place at Tutong this year with the aim of highlighting the importance of Brunei's history to the public.

In a press conference yesterday, Deputy Head of the History Centre Hj Abd Karim Hj Abd Rahman said that with the continuous theme of 'Sayang Brunei' (Love Brunei), the general public will be able to see various kinds of activities in Tutong.

The activities are to encourage more support for the national philosophy of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB) through teaching history to the youth, so that they develop a spirit of patriotism and identity.

It also aims to cultivate students' interest in the historical importance of national development. Furthermore, it also aims to make known the functions and roles of the History Centre to the public.

The deputy head of the History Centre also said that the carnival also provide opportunities for residents to introduce products of historical value such as natural foods and crafts.

"It is also a good opportunity for the History Centre to share or exchange ideas and information between the public and the centre on Brunei History," he said.

Hj Abd Karim explained that this would be the second time for the carnival to be held, as the previous and first carnival was held at the Oil and Gas Discovery Centre in Seria, Belait.

"We'll be expecting quite considerably a different kind of carnival this year," he added.

This was due to the many "puak" (tribe) in Tutong, he said.

The Tutong event is expected to see many activities that promote and disseminate information of Brunei culture, food, and tradition, as well as performances of the many tribes in the district.

The deputy head also emphasised that the amount of support and enthusiasm in planning the event was "amazing" because "they were all very willing to come together, help and also be involved in ensuring the necessary items such as photographs and memorabilia needed from each and every dominant and minority tribe would be well represented at the carnival".

The carnival which will be held from June 14 to 17 at the Seri Kenangan Hall of the Community Hall Complex in Tutong. It will be open to the public from 8.30am to 9pm.

According to the statement, the carnival will include activities such as exhibitions, traditional food festivals, traditional games, a history discussion, and history quizzes. The carnival is an annual event organised by the History Centre under the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports. The Brunei Times