BY James Kon

It was an unforgettable day for 442 who received their citizenship at the 35th Citizenship Certificate Presentation at the Bridex Hall, Jerudong on Tuesday.

Minister of Home Affairs Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman presented the certificate as the guest of honour.

The ceremony served to officially recognise new citizens following the consent from 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.

Tang Kong Pheng, 79, had waited her whole life to get the citizenship. She said, “I can’t describe my feelings today. I am very happy to officially become a Brunei citizen. I have waited a long time for this moment. I would like to thank His Majesty. Despite being a senior citizen, I have been granted Brunei citizenship, finally.”

Local businessman Haji Heazly Azma bin Haji Abdul Azeez said he felt blessed to be able to receive the citizenship.

“I have been waiting for this for so long. It is a very proud moment for me and my family. All my family members are Brunei citizens and finally, today, I’ve become a Bruneian. It is not easy to obtain the citizenship and therefore no one should take it for granted.”

Maths teacher Sylvester Tan Chun Kiat said he is happy to consider himself as ‘Anak Brunei’ now.

He said, “It’s a big day for me because I had been waiting for this moment for a long time. I feel honoured and proud to be able to officially receive my citizenship. I had been waiting for 12 years for this moment.”

The 36-year-old conveyed his heartfelt gratitude to His Majesty and the government for awarding the citizenship.

-- Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin