On June 25, 2025, Ultech Engineering had the privilege of attending the 249th Anniversary of the Independence Day of the United States of America celebration, hosted by the U.S. Embassy in Brunei. The exclusive reception was held at the U.S. Embassy of Brunei Darussalam and, true to tradition, it was a festive gathering of diplomats, partners, and invited guests—each one contributing to the vibrant atmosphere of cross-cultural appreciation and camaraderie.
Ultech Engineering’s continued invitation to this event is rooted in a partnership that spans more than a decade. Back in 2012, we were honored to be selected as the vendor of choice by the U.S. Embassy in Brunei for a critical project—to propose and install a unique power generator system along with a genset controller as a backup solution in case of any power disruptions or system failures at the embassy and the ambassador’s residence.
Ten years on, Ultech remains a trusted service partner, continuing to maintain and support the system that ensures uninterrupted power at this important diplomatic establishment. This long-standing collaboration is a testament to Ultech Engineering’s reliability, technical expertise, and commitment to quality.
This year’s celebration was built around a lighthearted and inviting theme—Backyard Barbecue—bringing with it the comfort of familiar American fare and the warmth of casual socializing. Guests were encouraged to wear casual outdoor clothing, setting a fun and relaxed tone for the evening.
In attendance from Ultech were Director Mr. Eddie Sim, Assistant Sales & Service Manager Ms. Bong CJ, and Marketing & Business Development Manager Ms. Adelene Tie. Though we arrived slightly later than planned due to some confusion locating the designated parking site, we were glad to catch up with familiar faces and immerse ourselves in the cheerful, high-spirited energy of the evening.
The culinary spread at the celebration was a delightful fusion of American comfort food and bold Mexican flavors. Alongside the classic burgers and fries, guests enjoyed tacos, churros, and a flavorful rice-and-chicken dish that added a warm, Latin twist to the menu.
To wash it all down, there was free-flow soda and pop, served in a variety of flavors—classic favorites like orange, cherry, and lime—as well as a unique local offering: assam manis, a sweet-and-sour tamarind-based drink that brought a distinctive Bruneian touch to the mix. For those with a sweet tooth, a candy floss and popcorn station kept everyone young at heart and happily snacking throughout the evening.
Unlike previous years that featured live bands, this year's entertainment came in the form of a live DJ, who kept the energy high with a playlist that had people dancing and enjoying themselves well into the night. The dance floor remained lively as guests—diplomats, business leaders, and local friends alike—came together in the true spirit of friendship and celebration.
The event was also officiated with dignity and ceremony, featuring opening remarks, the playing of national anthems, and acknowledgements by U.S. Ambassador Caryn R. McClelland and local dignitaries. It was a reminder that beyond the food and fun, the event commemorated the enduring partnership between the United States and Brunei.
As a Brunei-based event attended by our Malaysia-based team, the celebration made for a memorable day trip. Given that the Malaysian border closes at 10:00 PM, the Ultech team aimed to leave by 8:30 PM to ensure a smooth return. Thanks to our Director Mr. Eddie Sim’s exceptional driving skills—navigating through evening traffic with precision—we reached the Malaysian customs checkpoint just in time at 9:55 PM. It was a close call, but one that added a little adventure to an already unforgettable day.
Attending the 249th Independence Day celebration was more than a festive outing—it was a moment to reflect on the values of freedom, unity, and collaboration. For Ultech Engineering, it was also an opportunity to reaffirm our long-standing relationship with the U.S. Embassy and to celebrate another year of trust and cooperation.
As we look forward to the monumental 250th anniversary next year, we remain committed to supporting our diplomatic partners with the same integrity and excellence that have defined our work over the past decade.
From all of us at Ultech Engineering, thank you for having us—and here’s to many more years of friendship, innovation, and partnership.
