Brunei Darussalam participated in the 18th ASEAN Ministerial Meeting on Transnational Crime (18th AMMTC) and its related meetings in Vientiane, Laos from August 28 until yesterday.
Deputy Minister (Security and Law) at the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) Dato Seri Paduka Haji Sufian bin Haji Sabtu led the Sultanate’s delegation.
The deputy minister gave a country statement, where he outlined Brunei’s priorities and initiatives to address transnational crimes including cybercrime, terrorism, illicit drugs, trafficking in persons and people smuggling.
Dato Seri Paduka Haji Sufian noted the increasing trend of online scams faced by the Sultanate and other ASEAN member states, highlighting that cybercriminals are now using artificial intelligence as part of their modus operandi.
Another issue Brunei is focusing on is the threat of terrorism and spread of violent and extremist propaganda.
Regarding trafficking in persons, the deputy minister stressed on the need for various parties to use more transparent, consistent and fairer means of assessment in reporting efforts undertaken by the Sultanate and other ASEAN member states especially in publications such as the United States Trafficking in Persons Report.
The AMMTC also held consultations with ASEAN dialogue partners, where the deputy minister reiterated Brunei’s commitment and support to strengthen cooperation to protect, serve and preserve peace and stability in the region and beyond.
The 18th AMMTC and its related meetings also endorsed 12 documents, including the establishment of the Senior Officials’ Meeting on Transnational Crime (SOMTC) Working Group on People Smuggling, guidelines, template of concept notes for initiatives, updated terms of reference, declarations and joint statements.
Brunei Ambassador to Laos Haji Roslan bin Haji Yacub and Acting Permanent Secretary (Security and Law) at the PMO Zulhusam bin Haji Abdul Samad, as the SOMTC leader for the Sultanate, were also present at the meetings.
