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, on Thursday consented to award the Gurkha Reserve Unit (GRU) Golden Jubilee Medal to all serving personnel of the GRU and former leaders who have significantly contributed to the development of the organisation. His Majesty also consented to rename the unit as the Gurkha Security Unit.
The announcements were made during a titah delivered by His Majesty at the GRU Golden Jubilee Celebration held at the Parade Ground, Sungai Akar Camp on Thursday.
Reflecting on the unit’s five decades of service, His Majesty underscored its contributions to the peace and prosperity of Brunei Darussalam. His Majesty expressed satisfaction with the GRU’s continuous development, which has enhanced its capability to address evolving challenges.
“After five decades of establishment, the Gurkha Reserve Unit has progressed into a highly reputable and respected security organisation,” His Majesty said. The monarch highlighted the diversity of expertise within the GRU, stemming from its intake of personnel with backgrounds in the British Army Brigade of Gurkhas, Gurkha Contingent Singapore Police Force, Nepal Army, Indian Army, and citizens of Brunei Darussalam. This diversity, His Majesty noted, has enriched the organisation with wide-ranging experience and competence, making it a resilient force.
As a historic gesture of recognition, His Majesty conferred the Golden Jubilee Medal to all serving members and retired leaders of the GRU, reflecting their loyalty and dedication in fulfilling their duties.
His Majesty also officiated the opening of the Gurkha Gallery, which chronicles the unit’s history, showcases profiles of Gurkha personnel who received the prestigious ‘Victoria Cross,’ and celebrates the cultural and heritage aspects of the Gurkha community.
In conjunction with the Golden Jubilee, His Majesty consented to rename the unit as the Gurkha Security Unit. His Majesty expressed hope that the new name would inspire members to uphold their core values with unwavering commitment, ensuring the unit remains relevant for future generations. – James Kon
