There are readings from the Holy Koran and an address on Islam from the Ministry of reliroys Affairs to open the function. His Majesty the Sultan also gives a speech and then, along with other members of the Royal Family, leads a procession on foot through the main streets of Bandar Seri Begawan. The Prophet's birthday is also celebrated at the same time in other parts of the country, with lectures, religous functions and other activities. This festival is celebrated by the Chinese community and lasts two full weeks. It begins with a reunion dinner on the eve of the celebration which, traditionally, all members of the family attend.
Open house is declared and everyone is invited to feast on sumptuous spreads of food and drink.
Unmarried youngsters are given 'ang pow' - gifts of money in little red packets. Although not celebrated on a wide scale, Christmas Day is nevertheless a joyous and colourful occasion, well received by the nation. It is centred on Bandar Seri Begawan and the Belait District, where the greatest concentrations of Christmas expatriates live. Pakistan Philippines Singapore Sri Lanka Thailand Tibet Vietnam 1999-2000 AsiaRecipe.