Malaysians gather to celebrate Raya at the High Commission

BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

Sunday, October 19, 2008

THE Malaysian community from all over the country congregated to celebrate Hari Raya in a grand manner and in full unity with the High Commissioner of Malaysia to Brunei Darussalam yesterday, at an open house at the Malaysian High Commission at Jalan Kebangsaan.

Some 500 members of the Malaysian community living and working here were present at the annual Hari Raya celebration.

In his opening remarks, the Malaysian High Commissioner Dato' Ku Jaafar Ku Shaari had reminded his guests not to hesitate in raising any issues or problems they may have with either himself or officers of the High Commission.

All Malaysians in the country are welcomed to the high commission at any time and yesterday saw Malaysians from as far as Belait taking the opportunity to discuss issues that they had in person.

During this festive season, the high commissioner and staff took the opportunity to visit Malaysian prisoners at the Jerudong Prison as a reminder of his care and attention to all Malaysians in Brunei, even those who are in prison.

Yesterday's annual Raya gathering, is usually the biggest event hosted by the Malaysian High Commission although there are other different events organised by the Malaysian Association throughout the year.

The high commissioner commented that the Raya celebrations in Brunei differ slightly to Malaysia when it comes to having open houses. In Brunei, there can be as many as 20 open houses a day from the beginning of Raya, whereas in Malaysia, that is usually the time when city dwellers go back to their home town or village to visit their families, which can be several hours away.

This year marks the second Raya in Brunei for the Malaysian High Commissioner who has found the experience to be unique as well as interesting.

"Raya in Brunei is such a joyous occasion. The people here can even meet with His Majesty," he said.