(Bandar Seri Begawan, 17th) His Majesty the Sultan of Brunei expressed gratitude to Allah for His protection, enabling Brunei to maintain long-term peace and tranquility, spared from natural disasters that disturb the lives of its people. However, crimes such as drug-related offenses and theft remain challenges that the nation must address, and relevant agencies, especially those responsible for security and religious affairs, must act swiftly to tackle these issues.
His Majesty delivered these remarks during his Hijri New Year address at the Istana Nurul Iman yesterday, stating that the peace and well-being Brunei enjoys are due to a nation infused with prayer, remembrance of Allah, and the influence of the teachings of the Quran.
Nevertheless, His Majesty emphasized that Brunei occasionally still becomes entangled in drug crimes and theft—illegal activities that bring shame to the nation and are abhorred by religion—and so deserve the attention of all sectors of society.
"All agencies, especially those responsible for security and religious affairs, must act swiftly to address this issue."
His Majesty specifically pointed out that, at the religious level, religious education and outreach work should be further strengthened to raise public awareness of the dangers of drug abuse and other criminal acts, and to cultivate in society a sense of vigilance and abhorrence toward such crimes.
His Majesty believes that when facing various challenges, Muslims should place greater importance on prayer, seeking peace and security for the country, and asking for continuous protection and blessing from Allah.
"This is precisely where our responsibility lies—saving the people and the nation. I believe that, with Allah's permission, we will certainly be able to do so."
His Majesty stated that Muslims must always remain vigilant, never let their guard down, and must not forget to pray to Allah for peace and well-being.
At the same time, His Majesty called on the people to express pure sincerity and gratitude to Allah for granting longevity and grace, allowing everyone to welcome the arrival of the Hijri New Year once again.
"We hope and pray that the new year will be filled with good deeds and contributions we make for ourselves, our families, and our beloved country."
When discussing the country's future development, His Majesty noted that much work still needs to be done, both materially and spiritually. The material field includes economic and infrastructure development, while the spiritual field includes knowledge, education, and religious outreach.
His Majesty stated that all this requires continuous hard work and perseverance. The arrival of the New Year is not a time to restart work, but rather a vital opportunity to rekindle determination and continue moving forward.
In addition, His Majesty also pointed out that today's world situation is full of challenges, and many regions are still deeply shrouded in the shadow of war.
"War brings no benefit—it only brings suffering and hardship. All parties, including ourselves, cannot fully escape its influence."
Finally, on behalf of the royal family, His Majesty extended New Year greetings to all citizens and residents, wishing everyone a Happy Hijri New Year and praying that in the coming year, everyone may receive Allah's blessings and grace, guidance, peace, and bountiful sustenance.
Nevertheless, His Majesty emphasized that Brunei occasionally still becomes entangled in drug crimes and theft—illegal activities that bring shame to the nation and are abhorred by religion—and so deserve the attention of all sectors of society.
"All agencies, especially those responsible for security and religious affairs, must act swiftly to address this issue."
His Majesty specifically pointed out that, at the religious level, religious education and outreach work should be further strengthened to raise public awareness of the dangers of drug abuse and other criminal acts, and to cultivate in society a sense of vigilance and abhorrence toward such crimes.
His Majesty believes that when facing various challenges, Muslims should place greater importance on prayer, seeking peace and security for the country, and asking for continuous protection and blessing from Allah.
"This is precisely where our responsibility lies—saving the people and the nation. I believe that, with Allah's permission, we will certainly be able to do so."
His Majesty stated that Muslims must always remain vigilant, never let their guard down, and must not forget to pray to Allah for peace and well-being.
At the same time, His Majesty called on the people to express pure sincerity and gratitude to Allah for granting longevity and grace, allowing everyone to welcome the arrival of the Hijri New Year once again.
"We hope and pray that the new year will be filled with good deeds and contributions we make for ourselves, our families, and our beloved country."
When discussing the country's future development, His Majesty noted that much work still needs to be done, both materially and spiritually. The material field includes economic and infrastructure development, while the spiritual field includes knowledge, education, and religious outreach.
His Majesty stated that all this requires continuous hard work and perseverance. The arrival of the New Year is not a time to restart work, but rather a vital opportunity to rekindle determination and continue moving forward.
In addition, His Majesty also pointed out that today's world situation is full of challenges, and many regions are still deeply shrouded in the shadow of war.
"War brings no benefit—it only brings suffering and hardship. All parties, including ourselves, cannot fully escape its influence."
Finally, on behalf of the royal family, His Majesty extended New Year greetings to all citizens and residents, wishing everyone a Happy Hijri New Year and praying that in the coming year, everyone may receive Allah's blessings and grace, guidance, peace, and bountiful sustenance.