Brunei Darussalam will send an 11-member contingent comprising five athletes and six officials to compete in swimming and golf events at the 3rd Asian Youth Games (AYG) in Manama, Bahrain, from October 22 to 31.

A national flag handing-over ceremony for the contingent took place on Thursday at the Hassanal Bolkiah National Stadium, with His Royal Highness Prince Haji Sufri Bolkiah, President of the Brunei Darussalam National Olympic Council (BDNOC), officiating as the guest of honour.

In his welcoming remarks, Acting Minister of Culture, Youth and Sports Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Muhammad Juanda bin Haji Abdul Rashid congratulated the selected athletes and expressed hope that their participation would help sharpen their skills and provide valuable experience in fostering healthy competition.

He also reminded contingent members to maintain discipline and cooperation throughout their stay in Bahrain, while avoiding any prohibited substances or medications that could lead to disqualification or suspension, thereby tarnishing the country’s reputation.

“The handing over of Brunei Darussalam’s national flag to the Chef de Mission today is an official symbol of recognition and trust bestowed upon the contingent to carry the nation’s name onto the Asian Youth Games 2025 stage,” he said.

The highlight of the ceremony saw His Royal Highness handing over the national flag to Chef de Mission Noorfairuzah Hani binti Haji Mohamad @ Haji Zaini.

This year marks Brunei Darussalam’s third participation in the Asian Youth Games, with the previous appearance at the 2nd edition held in Nanjing, China, in 2013.

Also present were members of the National Athlete Selection and Evaluation Executive Committee, representatives from national sports associations, senior officials from the Ministry of Culture, Youth and Sports, as well as parents and guardians of the athletes. – James Kon

Courtesy from Borneo Bulletin