His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Minister of Defence and Supreme Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, has consented to attend a Reception Ceremony in conjunction with the Royal Brunei Armed Forces' 51st Anniversary Celebration in London. The ceremony was held at the Dorchester Hotel , one of the premier hotels in London.
His Majesty was greeted upon arrival by the High Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam in London, His Excellency Haji Mohamad Aziyan bin Abdullah and the Defence Attache to the High Commission of Brunei Darussalam, Lieutenant Colonel Haji 'Abdur Rahim bin Haji 'Abdul Karim. Also present was His Royal Highness Second Lieutenant Prince 'Abdul Mateen ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah.
The ceremony began with the recital of surah Al-Fatihah led by the Religious Officer at the Brunei Students' Unit in London, Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam.
Lieutenant Colonel Haji 'Abdur Rahim in his welcoming address, expressed the highest appreciation for His Majesty's presence at the ceremony.
His Majesty then consented to cut the RBAF's 51st Anniversary cake.
Doa Selamat was read by Haji Sammali bin Haji Adam.
His Majesty then consented to meet with various representatives from foreign countries who attended the reception. They comprised Ambassadors and High Commissioners from the ASEAN Countries as well as Chief Defence Advisors in London, Officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces who are currently undergoing training in the United Kingdom, and recipients of the Supreme Commander's Scholarship.
Before departing the ceremony, His Majesty consented to a group photo session and to sign a Commemorative Parchment. His Majesty's presence at this ceremony clearly illustrates the continuous commitment and care of His Majesty in making the Royal Brunei Armed Forces as a leading and prestigious defence institution.