The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) training squadron, comprising two naval ships, JS KASHIMA and JS SHIMAKAZE, arrived in Brunei Darussalam on Thursday.
The ships, carrying around 570 naval personnel led by Rear Admiral NISHIYAMA Takahiro, Commander of Training Squadron, will be in the country until June 2, 2024.
The Charge d’Affaires of the Japanese Embassy in Bandar Seri Begawan Suda Atsushi, and Assistant Chief of Staff Naval Operations of the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) Commander Malek Fadillah, welcomed the ships. Officers and personnel of the RBN were present at the welcoming ceremony and were given a tour of the JS KASHIMA.
Among the personnel on board are 190 graduates of the 74th General Officer Candidate Course, who are participating in the Overseas Training Cruise 2024. The visit aims to provide trainee officers with practical training opportunities and to promote friendship and goodwill with the host country.
During their stay, the navy personnel will visit various landmarks and tourist spots in Brunei, including the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Brunei Museum, Water Village, Brunei Arts and Handicrafts Centre, and several mosques.
A highlight of the visit is the commemoration of the Japan-Brunei Friendship Year 2024. The Japanese navy personnel will present a Japanese Cultural Showcase, featuring the JMSDF Band from Yokosuka, at Times Square Shopping Centre in Berakas on Friday afternoon.
The Overseas Training Cruise 2024 spans from May 20 to November 11, 2024, covering 11 countries and 13 ports of call, including London, Hamburg, Valencia, Istanbul, Naples, Dakar, Cape Town, Victoria, Pearl Harbour, Norfolk, and Acapulco.
This visit underscores the ongoing commitment to enhancing bilateral relations between Japan and Brunei and contributes to the realisation of a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.” – LYNA MOHAMAD
