Involvement in integrated operations locally and internationally is essential to enhance professionalism and ensure national security, says His Majesty.
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 highlighted the crucial need for Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) personnel to actively participate in complex integrated operations during a titah at the Sovereign’s Parade Ceremony for the 23rd Intake of the Officer Cadet School (OCS) at the Defence Academy, RBAF on Thursday.
His Majesty emphasised that while academic excellence and lifelong learning are critical, practical exposure to operations is equally vital. His Majesty cited examples such as the Badai Taduh humanitarian mission and the Independent Decommissioning Body Verification, Monitoring, and Assistance Team (IDB VMAT) in the Philippines, as well as Brunei’s contributions to the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL), as key areas where RBAF personnel have made impactful contributions.
His Majesty praised the Faculty of Military Studies at the Defence Academy for its role in fostering lifelong learning and producing highly educated officers, aligning with Brunei Vision 2035. However, His Majesty stressed that academic achievements must be complemented by field involvement to further enhance RBAF’s capabilities and professionalism.
The Sovereign Parade marked a significant milestone for OCS, which has produced 862 officers to date, including two from Malaysia and one from Singapore. The recent inclusion of cadets from Indonesia and Thailand in the 24th intake further solidifies OCS’s reputation as a center of excellence for officer training. His Majesty extended congratulations to OCS on this achievement, acknowledging its role in fostering strong regional ties.
His Majesty expressed confidence in the ongoing modernisation of RBAF through collaborations such as the memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Defence and Universiti Brunei Darussalam. These efforts ensure that the armed forces remain effective, efficient, and relevant in an evolving security landscape. – Lyna Mohammad
