Royal wedding ceremonies held for Brunei Sultan's son

The royal wedding of Brunei's Prince Abdul Malik was launched at Istana Nurul Iman (the Palace) on Sunday.

Before Sunday's Royal marriage proposal ceremony, a delegation from the groom visited the bride's family to declare the 31-year- old prince's intention to seek the hand of the 22-year-old Dk Raabi'atul 'Adawiyyah in marriage.

The bride's side officially replied that they were aware of the groom's noble intention. It is an important part of the royal customs of Brunei Darussalam which heralds the beginning of the period of ceremonial events of the royal.

Dk Raabi'atul 'Adawiyyah was a system data analyst and worked as an IT instructor. In her spare time, she likes to read books on Islam, particularly role of Muslim women.

Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, also the Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, on April 5 officially started his son's royal wedding ceremony proceedings.

During the 11-day wedding festivities, the public stage shows in the form of religious performances were held at two separate locations in the capital.

The royal wedding ceremony demonstrates the wealth of Brunei's culture which maintains a dominant hereditary behind modernity.

For the people in the country, the customs are regarded as national treasure that are to be proud of where the old traditions are still preserved and harmonized with modernity.

The royal wedding ceremony is the base of tradition for the Brunei Malay weddings. Regardless of social ranks.

During a wedding, the bride and groom are dressed in all their finery, throw a banquet, and hold court in elegant settings.

Some 6,000 people attended the ceremony, among who are Malaysian royals, dignitaries, cabinet ministers, members of the Privy Council, deputy ministers, foreign diplomats, Legislative Council members and senior government officials.

The royal wedding banquet takes place on Sunday evening. The wedding celebration will end with thanksgiving prayers on April 15.