Cultural activities in capital to celebrate royal couple

WEDDING festivities extended into the capital as the Ministry of Home Affairs (MoHA) hosted cultural events at the Waterfront and the Royal Regalia Museum car park to the excitment of the public.

These events organised by various ministries and districts for the duration of the royal wedding gave the public a chance to join in the festivities.

The highlight of yesterday evening was the husband and wife singing competition which was held by the Brunei-Muara District where couples were judged, not only on their voice and style, but also how they worked together as a couple.

Every village had a couple representing them, where the colours they wore reflected the uniqueness of their village. While songs were chosen on wedding and traditional themes, each couple were free to interpret the song any way they chose.

Couples were apprehensive at first but began to sway to the music, with the crowd responding enthusiastically. A couple went as far to recite a poem in honour of the royal couple.



Muslim Othman who works in the Department of Electrical Services and his wife Dewi Delima Yusof represented Kilanas, and are no strangers to these kinds of competitions.

These types of competitions were held at Taman Hj Sir Muda Omar 'Ali Saifuddien, they recalled, and were enthusiastic that such competitions were being held after such a long break.

"I practise at home by learning how to control my voice and sound good with the music. The key is to pick a song that is suitable for your voice," Dewi said.

Civil servant Hj Munaf Hj Hasbollah and his wife Noraini Hj Hitam were representing Kota Batu and heard about the competition from friends.

Known for their singing talents, he and his wife were asked to join the competition even though they have not sung in public for three years. While they were only told about it last night, they were comfortable with showing up in their best.

Another couple, Norliha Hj Ismail and Shamsuddin Daud, joined the competition to have fun. Even though they picked a simple song, they had practised it at home to avoid having problems on stage.

The public is encouraged to attend the cultural activities in the capital, from 8-10 pm, until September 24.The Brunei Times