Berakas:The 5th Brunei Darussalam National Games (SKBD) for the year 2026 officially commenced today with an elaborate opening ceremony at the Indoor Stadium, Hassanal Bolkiah National Sports Complex. The event saw the participation of 1,382 athletes, officials, and coaches from seven contingents.
According to Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports of Brunei Darussalam, the ceremony was graced by His Excellency Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports, as the Guest of Honour. Other notable attendees included His Excellency Awang Aliuddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, who also serves as the Chairman of the 5th Brunei Darussalam National Sports Working Committee, along with high-ranking officials from the Royal Brunei Armed Forces, the police, and various sports associations.
The ceremony featured a parade led by the Royal Brunei Police Force Band, followed by national flag bearers and the Brunei Darussalam National Sports Flag team. This segment included members from the Royal Brunei Police Cadet Force, Royal Brunei Armed Forces Cadet Force, National Service Program Alumni, and performers for the Visit Brunei Year 2027 initiative.
Legendary athletes who have achieved significant success for Brunei were honored, along with the Future Athletes Team, comprising 65 young talents identified through grassroots programs. Sports Technical Officers, numbering 407, also participated in the parade.
Each district contingent was led by a distinguished leader, with representation from Brunei and Muara District, Belait District, Tutong District, Temburong District, Royal Brunei Armed Forces Sports Council, Royal Brunei Police Force Sports Council, and Brunei Darussalam Schools Sports Council.
The national anthem was performed, followed by a welcoming speech from His Excellency Awang Aliuddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman. The opening declaration was made, and sports pledges were recited by representatives from the respective districts and sports federations.
Performances included regional songs by local artists, a special display aligned with the theme song for Visit Brunei Year 2027, and the national sports anthem "Together in Pursuit of Glory."
The SKBD Championship includes ten sports events such as Aquatics, Badminton, and Football, among others, with a total athlete participation of 1,077. The championship aims to enhance sports performance in Brunei, foster healthy competition, and cultivate sports talent for national and international representation. More details about the SKBD can be accessed online via their official website and Instagram.