His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah, the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, in his titah in conjunction with the 22nd National Day, underlines three major issues. Firstly, His Majesty recollects the deeds of his late father, Al-Mahrum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Saadul Khairi Waddien in his struggle for the destiny of the country and people. The Monarch also reminds about the possibility of the energy resources depleting and touched on the prevailing controversial issue in regards to disgracing Islam. The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam’s titah was telecast by RTB to the whole nation Wednesday night.

His Majesty’s recall of the deeds and struggle of his late father is indeed appropriate and timely because this is the 20th year since the passing of the country’s beloved monarch who was a statesman and role model that brought Brunei Darussalam at a par with other independent and sovereign nations. Words fail to describe the contributions of Al-Mahrum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien, thus it’s appropriate to remember him as a ruler who cared very much about the fate of the people and country. His efforts to bring progress to the whole nation were without equal and done selflessly, and even without regard to pressure from any party. His work was so organised, and bore results to be proud of. His Majesty says the nation learnt many lessons from his late father, which gave it continued stability and enabled the people to enjoy the fruits of its efforts and long struggle. The country’s struggle is lengthy and endless. As cited in the National Day theme ‘Enhancing the National Competitiveness’, such struggle will not bring about progress and development if the nation is weak and not able to compete. In this regard, His Majesty points out that a struggle requires resources and strong thinking. However, His Majesty reminds that ahead lie various obstacles which need to be confronted and overcome wisely.

Among the obstacles is the possibility of energy shortage. In today’s world, most people depend on oil and gas, although these natural resources are limited and may be exhausted one day. His Majesty said that this means when the time comes, the world will face an energy shortage that affect and shock everyone. It will be a great catastrophe, when that happens. The Monarch highlights, here lies the importance of always helping one another and fostering understanding. It is valuable, not only during happy times, but necessary in times of difficulties. His Majesty says happiness or comfort can be achieved with hard work. But when misfortune strikes, it usually comes unexpectedly.

In what is being seen as an indirect reference to recent happenings where Prophet Mohammad SAW is being ridiculed through a caricature in newspapers in the West, His Majesty regards this as an action condemned by all religions and civilisations. Such doing is absolutely contrary to the advocates that call on all mankind against fighting and insulting one another, let alone insulting prophets. The Monarch says no matter what justification is given, including freedom of speech and the press, it’s totally unacceptable. The question is.....what is more noble and valuable...the Prophet or God’s Messenger who brings deliverance and blessings to the world, or making an excuse of freedom? And what is freedom when it is used to hurt others and cause turmoil to the world? His Majesty is very grateful that the country’s media are not involved in promoting this dark useless malice. Because of this, His Majesty sincerely thanks the nation and the people for upholding the characteristics of Brunei’s advanced and pure civilisation. His Majesty’s titah is quoted by international news agencies. Amongst them is the AFP, which is among agencies that insulted Prophet Mohammed, which is unacceptable.