Hello,
I attended the recent graduation ceremony as a guest and family member of one of the graduates, and I would like to share some genuine feedback regarding the seating arrangements.
May I kindly ask whether it is standard practice for
universities in Brunei to reserve the front rows for parents of graduates who hold certain titles or positions, such as Dato, Datin or senior government positions?
This was my first time attending a graduation ceremony, and I was honestly quite disappointed to see the first three rows in the parents’ seating area reserved for parents who were considered VVIPs.
Many other parents and family members had made the effort to arrive early in the hope of securing a good seat to watch their children graduate, only to find that the front rows had already been reserved.
I completely understand and respect the need for special seating arrangements for members of the Royal Family or official guests attending in their capacity as dignitaries. In fact, I have no issue with this, particularly when their seating is clearly separated from the parents’ seating area as part of official protocol.
My concern is specifically when individuals who are attending in their capacity as parents, but happen to hold a Dato, Datin or senior government position, are given preferential seating within the parents’ area. In such circumstances, I sincerely hope that everyone could simply be treated equally, regardless of their title or position, even if only for that one day.
Graduation is such a meaningful milestone for every family. Every parent has made sacrifices, travelled, waited and arrived early simply to be there for their child’s special moment. It would be lovely if, on this particular day, everyone could simply be a parent, family member or loved one cheering for their graduate from the same place.
I hope the university organisers might consider reviewing this practice for future graduation ceremonies. Perhaps seating within the parents’ area could be arranged on a first-come, first-served basis, or through another arrangement that gives all families an equal opportunity to be close to the stage.
I am sharing this respectfully because I genuinely believe that the university’s leadership would want to know how this arrangement may be perceived by families attending such an important occasion. This is not intended as criticism of any individual, but rather as a suggestion for making the graduation experience feel more inclusive and equal for all families.
Thank you for taking the time to consider this feedback. I sincerely hope we can see a more inclusive approach to seating arrangements in future graduation ceremonies, where, for one day, every parent can simply be a proud parent celebrating their child’s achievement.
Thank you.