Berakas: His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam launched a book titled 'Negara Ditanai Dengan Sedekah or The Country is Upheld With Charity' and officiated the opening of the Knowledge Convention 2025 and its events. The ceremony, held in conjunction with His Majesty's 79th Birthday Celebration, took place at the International Convention Centre in Berakas.
According to Radio Television Brunei, the event was graced by the presence of His Majesty's sons, brothers, and sister, including His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Malik, His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Jefri Bolkiah, and Her Royal Highness Princess Hajah Masna, Ambassador At-Large at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Upon arrival, His Majesty was greeted by Yang Amat Mulia Pengiran Indera Setia Diraja Sahibul Karib Pengiran Anak Haji Idris bin Pengiran Maharaja Lela Pengiran Muda Abdul Kahar, Chief of Adat Istiadat Negara as Co-Advisor of the Knowledge Convention's steering committee, the Co-Chairpersons, and the Chairman of the National Committee for His Majesty's 79th Birthday Celebration.
The ceremony began with a doa selamat read by Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia Doctor Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned, the State Mufti. This was followed by the reading of Surah Al-Baqarah Verses 261 to 264, presented by Awang Ahmad Zulwaqar bin Haji Suhaili, Champion Qari of the National Level Musabaqah Al-Qur'an Reading for Adults 2025.
In his welcoming address, the Minister at the Prime Minister's Office and Second Minister of Defence highlighted the convention's theme, which focuses on elevating the culture of giving as the foundation of spiritual and social strength. His Majesty then proceeded to launch the book and subsequently officiated the Knowledge Convention 2025.
In a special lecture, the State Mufti emphasised that charity extends beyond mere giving, serving as the basis of social strength, a means of averting calamities, and a catalyst for the nation's blessings.