Sri Lanka High Commission in Singapore, also concurrently accredited to Brunei Darussalam, together with the Sri Lanka Association in Brunei Darussalam (SLABD) organized Sri Lanka’s 71st Independence Day Celebrations in Brunei Darussalam on 23 February 2019.
The ceremony commenced with the hoisting of the National Flag by Acting High Commissioner O.L. Ameer Ajwad and singing of the National Anthem in both Sinhala and Tamil languages followed by a two minute silence in remembrance of all who sacrificed their lives for the country’s independence, sovereignty and prosperity.
The traditional Oil Lamp was lit by the Acting High Commissioner, President of the SLABD, Mr. I.M. Ranasinghe, Hony. Secretary, Mr. P. Tehan Gunathilaka and Executive Committee Members of the SLABD. The Independence Day Messages of the President, Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs were also read out to the gathering. The President of the SLABD delivered welcome speech and Prof. Arosha Namal Senanayake spoke on the importance of the Independence Day.
Acting High Commissioner Ameer Ajwad in his address recalled deeply rooted bilateral relations underpinned by people to people contacts between Sri Lanka and Brunei Darussalam. He also recollected the important roles played by a vibrant Sri Lankan Community in Brunei Darussalam in various sectors and paid tribute to those who contributed for the mutual benefit of the two countries. Highlighting the potential areas for cooperation, the Acting High Commissioner noted that a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) being finalized between the Ministries of Foreign Affairs of Sri Lanka and Brunei Darussalam on Political Consultation, will serve as a catalyst for greater cooperation between the two countries. He invited all Sri Lankans living in Brunei Darussalam, as Ambassadors of friendship and goodwill, to join hands with the High Commission to contribute to elevate the existing relations between Sri Lanka and Brunei Darussalam into new heights.
As the highlight of the event, Acting High Commissioner Ameer Ajwad felicitated 6 Sri Lankan students, who had excelled in their academic studies at different levels, for their achievement as well as 20 Sri Lankan professionals who had served long years in Brunei Darussalam, for their professional career and contribution for the mutual benefit of both countries, by awarding certificates of achievement and appreciation respectively.
Many Sri Lankan Professionals and their families who live in Brunei Darussalam participated in the event. Members of the Sri Lankan Community staged Sri Lankan cultural performances. SLABD hosted a dinner for the participants.
