The commemorative collection includes a gold coin, silver coin, cupronickel coin, and—for the first time—a commemorative gold foil. All items feature a portrait of Their Majesties taken during the 2017 Hari Raya Aidilfitri celebration at the International Convention Centre. The design incorporates the traditional woven motif Kain Si Lubang Bangsi, symbolising cultural heritage and refinement, as well as the number ‘60’ in Roman and Jawi numerals to represent six decades of royal marriage. The reverse of the gold foil displays Their Majesties’ personal emblems, reflecting royal sovereignty and strength.

In terms of specifications and pricing: the gold coin (999.9 gold, 31.1g) carries a face value of $600 and is priced from $6,700, subject to market rates; the silver coin (999 silver, 31.1g) has a face value of $60 and is priced at $560; the cupronickel coin (28g) carries a face value of $6 and is sold at $360, and the gold foil (999.9 gold, 1g) is priced from $450, subject to prevailing gold prices.
The public may purchase the commemorative products starting Monday, 2 February 2026 at the BDCB Gift Shop, Level 1, BCMB Building, Ministry of Finance and Economy Complex, Commonwealth Drive.

Among the commemorative products to be issued by Brunei Darussalam Central Bank (BDCB)

Under the ASEAN Green Hotel Award category, Radisson Hotel was recognised for its commitment to sustainable hospitality practices.

Several Bruneian venues were also honoured under the ASEAN MICE Venue Awards. Among them, the An-Naura Hall at the Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex; the Mutiara Ballroom at Radisson Hotel Brunei Darussalam; and the Indera Samudra Grand Hall at The Empire Brunei received awards in the Meeting Room category. Meanwhile, the Indera Samudra Grand Hall at The Empire Brunei, and the BRIDEX International Conference Centre were recognised under the Exhibition Venue category.

Brunei also stood out in sustainable tourism. The Mangrove River Safari by Freme Travel Services won the ASEAN Sustainable Tourism Award under the Eco-Tourism Destination Theme and Packages for the Urban Product category. Meanwhile, Discover Temburong and the Canopy Walk Tower were also commended under the Eco-Tourism Destination Theme for the Rural Product category.

Bilateral relations between Brunei Darussalam and the Kingdom of Thailand continue to be strengthened following a reception hosted by the Royal Thai Embassy in Brunei Darussalam in conjunction with Thailand’s National Day held at Royal Berkshire.
The reception was graced by Yang Mulia Dato Seri Paduka Awang Haji Mohamad Azmi bin Haji Mohd. Hanifah, Deputy Minister (Energy) at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO), as guest of honour.
In his remarks, Kittivudh Pinyowit, Chargé d’Affaires a.d. interim highlighted recent high-level engagements, including the meeting between His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand during the APEC 2025 Economic Leaders’ Meeting in October, which advanced initiatives such as a joint investment plan between the Thailand Government Pension Fund and the Brunei Investment Agency, as well as the Double Taxation Agreement, which is expected to be signed early next year.
He also noted the visit of the largest Thai trade delegation to Brunei Darussalam in recent years, reflecting growing economic cooperation, alongside continued collaboration in defence through high-level exchanges and meetings.
The event concluded with a cake-cutting ceremony, a group photo session, and the presentation of souvenirs to the guest of honour.
 

His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, SEA Games Federation Honorary Life President and President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council, attended the SEA Games Council Meeting at the Grand Fourwings Convention Hotel.
At the meeting, His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah was conferred with the SEA Games Federation Order of the Golden Rings Award, the highest honour of the SEA Games Federation, in recognition of his long-standing service, dedication, and leadership. The award also reinforced Brunei Darussalam’s standing as a valued member of the SEA Games Federation (SEAGF). His Royal Highness previously received the Olympic Order Silver Award in 1999.
 

The ceremony was held in a warm and cordial atmosphere, with His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam and Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha taking the opportunity to interact with student representatives prior to the programme. Their Majesties later signed the parchment and attended a luncheon with student representatives, reflecting Their Majesties’ close care and attention towards the welfare of Bruneian students abroad.
In a titah (royal speech), His Majesty highlighted the encouraging improvement in the academic achievements of Bruneian students in the UK, including the growing number studying at universities ranked among the world’s top 10. His Majesty expressed confidence in the ability of Bruneian students to excel at prestigious institutions and hoped that this excellence would continue to inspire others.
His Majesty also reminded students to make balanced and prudent use of digital technology, cautioning against digital fatigue and addiction. Students were advised to manage their time wisely, limit excessive use of social media and online gaming, prioritise face-to-face interactions and outdoor activities, and maintain close communication with university lecturers and Student Unit officers to ensure their overall well-being.
Meanwhile, Dayangku Nabilah binti Pengiran Behrin, the President of the Brunei Students’ Union (BSU), in her welcoming remarks, shared the theme of the ceremony, Raja Berwawasan, Belia Pemacu Cita Negara, highlighting His Majesty’s far-sighted leadership and the role of youth as key partners in national development based on the principles of Malay Islamic Monarchy (MIB). She also introduced BSU’s ‘AIS’ framework – Akar, Identiti dan Sistem – as a practical approach to nurturing future leaders among Bruneian students abroad.
A highlight of the event was Their Majesties’ consented meeting and greeting with approximately 1,130 Bruneian citizens and residents in the UK and Ireland, comprising students, government officers and visitors, symbolising the close and enduring bond between the Monarch and the people.
The ceremony was further enlivened by the playing of the national anthem, the recitation of Surah Luqman, a tausyeh performance, and the presentation of pesambah (souvenir) to Their Majesties, reflecting unity, loyalty and appreciation from Bruneian students in the UK and Ireland.

The overall prevalence of diabetic retinopathy in Brunei Darussalam is currently estimated at 22.6 per cent, compared to the global rate of 27 per cent, with 9.7 per cent diagnosed with vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy.

In 2014, 7,700 patients were screened at Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) Hospital and other clinics. By 2017, this number had increased to 11,000, reflecting a 40 per cent rise in access within just three years.

On this basis, the Ministry of Health has integrated artificial intelligence (AI)-based screening tools into its services, including non-ophthalmology clinics to ensure that patients do not miss screenings during their routine check-ups.

Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Mohammad Isham bin Haji Jaafar, Minister of Health stated the matter in his opening remarks at the 7th ASEAN Ophthalmology Congress (AOS 2025) held at the An-Naura Hall, Yayasan Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Complex.

Since October 2024, over 19,800 individuals have been screened using AI technology, with a sensitivity of over 80 per cent in detecting vision-threatening diabetic retinopathy. Notably, about 17 per cent of those screened were in the early stage of the disease, and about 5 to 6 per cent required active treatment – patients who might not have been previously identified. 

“AI has improved screening efficiency, shortened waiting times, and accelerated referral processes, allowing ophthalmologists to focus on sight-saving interventions. This innovation not only improves access to healthcare services, but also speeds up diagnosis and helps prevent avoidable blindness nationwide,” said the Minister of Health.

The Minister also underscored the importance of cooperation, capacity building, and equitable access to healthcare in the ASEAN region.

“To move forward, we must strengthen regional and global collaboration, invest in human resource development, nurture a new generation of ophthalmologists, and embrace digital health innovation to ensure everyone can access vision-saving treatments.”

In line with the Brunei Vision 2035, the Minister emphasised that the goal is to build a prosperous, inclusive, and resilient nation.

Held under the theme ‘Vision Beyond Borders: Connecting Regional Expertise, Elevating Eye Care for All’ the AOS 2025 served as a platform to promote the development of vision science, research, and clinical practice among ASEAN Member States.

The opening ceremony began with welcoming remarks by Dr. Hajah Helena binti Pehin Orang Kaya Setia Jaya Dato Paduka Haji Hurairah, Chairperson and President of the 7th ASEAN Ophthalmology Congress. 

The Minister then officiated the event, which was followed by an official launch video to mark the Brunei’s historic hosting of AOS 2025.
 

His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen ibni His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar 'Ali Saifuddien Sa'adul Khairi Waddien attended the National Flag Presentation Ceremony for Brunei Darussalam’s contingent to the 33rd Southeast Asian (SEA) Games 2025 in the Kingdom of Thailand. The ceremony, officiated by His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah as President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council (BDNOC), was held at the Digadong Hall, Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports.
The event included a recitation of Surah Al-Faatihah, speeches highlighting the athletes’ dedication, and the official presentation of the national flag to Chef de Mission Dayang Hajah Umi Kalthum binti Haji Abdul Karim. His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah expressed gratitude to the government and the Ministry for their support, congratulated the 65 selected athletes who will be competing in nine sports, and emphasised discipline, anti-doping compliance, and the safeguarding of athletes.
Brunei Darussalam will send 70 officials and 65 athletes to compete in Swimming, Karate, Netball, Pencak Silat, Polo, Sepak Takraw, Taekwondo, Weightlifting, and Wushu. His Royal Highness Prince 'Abdul Mateen and His Royal Highness Princess Azemah Ni’matul Bolkiah will also compete in Polo. At the previous SEA Games in 2023, Brunei won two gold, one silver, and six bronze medals.
 

Accompanying His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam were His Royal Highness Prince Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Senior Minister at the Prime Minister’s Office; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Malik; His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen; and His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah.
Welcomed by Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Dr. Awang Haji Abdul Manaf bin Haji Metussin, Minister of Primary Resources and Tourism, His Majesty viewed a launch video and toured the pavilions showcasing Brunei Darussalam’s achievements in agriculture, agri-food, fisheries, forestry, and tourism, including local products, sustainable aquaculture, timber innovations, and tourism initiatives.
The Expo, themed ‘Innovative and Sustainable Primary Resources and Tourism’, highlights entrepreneurship among MSMEs, youth, and retirees, supports national food security, and strengthens the competitiveness of Brunei’s key sectors. It provides a platform for knowledge sharing, business matching, and showcasing innovations aimed at promoting sustainable economic growth and international engagement.
 

Covering about 800 square meters, the museum offers a closed-loop guided tour lasting 60-75 minutes, combining cultural displays, experiential elements and dining across three floors.

·         The first floor introduces the history and development of Phở in northern, central and southern Vietnam, featuring 209 artifacts including bowls, cooking pots, preparation tools and traditional Phở carriers, along with information on ingredients and recipes.

·         The second floor allows visitors to observe artisans demonstrating traditional methods of rice noodle making and Phở cooking.

·         The third floor showcases Phở-themed souvenirs and regional specialties. The tour concludes with guests enjoying a specially prepared bowl of Phở.

The all-inclusive tour is priced at VND750,000 for adults and VND500,000 for children, covering admission, souvenirs and one bowl of Phở adjusted to southern Vietnamese tastes. Visitors who do not join the tour can still dine at the venue, with prices ranging from VND125,000 to VND260,000 per bowl.

The museum is expected to operate daily from 8 a.m. to 9:30 p.m., while its dining area will remain open 24 hours a day, catering primarily to international visitors.

According to Le Nhat Thanh, Director of the Phở Museum, the idea was inspired by his visit to a ramen museum in Yokohama, Japan. He said the museum aims to create a dedicated space to introduce Phở to international visitors, presenting the dish as an expression of Vietnamese culture and everyday life across generations.

Phở, known for its broth simmered from beef bones and seasoned with spices such as cinnamon, star anise, cloves and black cardamom, has received repeated international recognition. In 2024, Phở was named by CNN as one of the world’s best soups.

According to TasteAtlas, Phở has been included in the list of the world’s 100 best dishes and continues to feature in the ranking this year. It is also among 18 Vietnamese representatives listed in TasteAtlas’s ranking of the world’s 100 best noodle dishes.

Vietnam’s first Phở Museum set to open on January 15. (Photo: Phở Museum)