His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, has urged the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) and relevant stakeholders to collaborate in creating pathways for youth interested in joining the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).
Delivering a titah at the Grand Parade of the 63rd Anniversary Celebration of the RBAF at Penanjong Garrison on Saturday, His Majesty highlighted the challenges in meeting recruitment targets, particularly for the Officer Cadet School (OCS), Defence Academy RBAF, and the Training Institute RBAF. The monarch noted that only 57 per cent of applicants were successfully selected for OCS last year, with 78 per cent for the Training Institute.
His Majesty called for a thorough assessment and focus on this issue, warning that if these trends continue, it could affect the structuring of the RBAF towards achieving the objectives of ‘Gagasan Angkatan 2035’. His Majesty emphasised the need for concerted efforts to prepare pathways for youth eager to serve in the RBAF.
The Sultan extended congratulations to all members of the RBAF, both active and retired, commending the parade showcased during the celebration for demonstrating the preparedness of the armed forces in fulfilling their responsibilities to the religion, government, nation, and country.
Reflecting on the RBAF’s progress, His Majesty expressed pride in the rapid development over six decades since its establishment. His Majesty praised recent advancements, including the structuring of the Combat Engineering Unit to the Combat Engineer Regiment Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF), the commissioning of the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) ships KDB As-Siddiq and KDB Al-Faruq, and the introduction of the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUV).
The Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF) has also received two of the four C295 MW transport aircraft, with a new combat helicopter expected soon. Additionally, the Joint Force Headquarters, RBAF, will upgrade the capability of the C41 system, His Majesty revealed.
His Majesty expressed confidence that with continuous focus and commitment, the MinDef and RBAF can set a good example for the government in planning and implementing transparent, honest, and effective projects.
The monarch also highlighted RBAF’s successful expansion of defence diplomacy through cooperation with armed forces from friendly nations at ASEAN, regional, and international levels. Bilateral exercises, multilateral ties, and events such as the Solidarity Jump by elite units from 11 friendly nations and the Defence Industry Exhibition featuring 20 countries underscore strong defence solidarity and diplomacy.
His Majesty extended appreciation to the friendly nations involved in the Solidarity Jump and Defence Industry Exhibition. The anniversary celebration was further enriched by the attendance of senior officers and personnel from the Royal Guard Special Forces, Bahrain Defence Force, who are training with the Special Forces Regiment of RBAF.
Expressing delight at the involvement of members of the former RBAF personnel association, PERWIRA, His Majesty extended his highest appreciation for their ongoing commitment and contributions to the nation, even after retirement.
This year also marks the 40th anniversary of the establishment of the MinDef. His Majesty commended the ministry for successfully navigating the RBAF over the past four decades.
Concluding his address, His Majesty thanked and congratulated the 63rd RBAF Anniversary Committee and all involved in the parade, praying for the RBAF’s continued protection under Allah the Almighty. – Lyna Mohammad
