The Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei turned 78 on July 15, 2024, with grand festivities that started on July 14 and continued through July 15. The Sultan’s birthday is usually observed as a national holiday in Brunei.
The celebrations commenced with a traditional Grand Parade held at Taman Haji Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien in the capital city, Bandar Seri Begawan. Thousands of people gathered to witness this annual spectacle, which offered a rare opportunity to see the royal family in person.
Early on July 14, hundreds of students from all four districts of Brunei lined the main road, waving mini national flags to the rhythmic beats of hadrah drums, creating a spirited atmosphere. Upon the Sultan’s arrival at the venue, he received a 21-gun salute accompanied by the national anthem, officially inaugurating the festivities in his honor.
The Sultan inspected a guard of honor comprising personnel from the Royal Brunei Land Force, Royal Brunei Navy, Royal Brunei Air Force, Royal Brunei Police Force, and members of uniformed government departments and associations
State dignitaries, grassroots leaders, and other distinguished guests, all dressed in traditional costumes, attended the ceremony.
The festivities extended beyond the Grand Parade, with numerous activities planned throughout the country. These included get-together events and traditional Junjung Ziarah ceremonies with people from all four districts of Brunei.
As the grand finale, aircraft from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces soared overhead, painting vibrant streaks across the azure sky. This aerial display captivated the massive crowd, drawing gasps of wonder and admiration from the multitude of onlookers who had gathered for the occasion.
