Brunei’s Royal Family Hosts Thousands at Istana Raya Open House for Aidilfitri Celebrations
Bandar Seri Begawan, The Gulf Observer: Undeterred by the heat and large crowds, thousands of people from all walks of life gathered enthusiastically for the royal family’s Hari Raya meet-and-greet as the Istana Nurul Iman reopened its doors to the public for the two-day Istana Raya Open House in celebration of Aidilfitri.
As early as 7 a.m. on Tuesday morning, well-wishers, dressed in vibrant festive attire, eagerly assembled at the main gates of the palace, seizing the rare opportunity to personally convey their greetings to Their Majesties.
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, along with Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam, warmly welcomed visitors into the palace grounds to mark the joyous occasion.
During the morning session, His Majesty received greetings from male visitors in the Baitur Rahmah Hall, joined by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office, along with His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, and other male members of the royal family.
Simultaneously, in an adjoining hall, Her Majesty exchanged festive greetings with female visitors, accompanied by members of the royal household, including Her Royal Highness Paduka Seri Pengiran Anak Isteri Pengiran Anak Sarah binti Pengiran Haji Salleh Ab Rahaman, as well as several princesses and dignitaries.
The two-day Istana Raya Open House is a cherished annual tradition that allows citizens, residents, and international visitors to meet Their Majesties and extend their festive greetings in person. This year’s celebration was particularly significant as the tradition made its much-anticipated return after being temporarily halted during the global pandemic, bringing joy and unity to the people of Brunei.
