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 in a titah expressed concern over the intensifying global geo-political uncertainties and evolving challenges, affecting this region, despite them happening far away.
The prolonged supply chain disruptions, have led to higher food and energy prices and the creation of various Indo-Pacific strategies and minilaterals could further add to the uncertainties and challenges already faced. In this regard, ASEAN developed the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP) to promote an enabling environment for peace and cooperation, based on the principles of openness, inclusivity, and transparency.
His Majesty delivered the titah during the retreat session of the ASEAN-Australia Special Summit at the Ballroom, Government House Victoria. Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.
His Majesty underscored that the region’s continued prosperity is dependent on peace and stability in the surrounding seas and oceans, especially as 60 per cent of global trade passes through its maritime area.
Such maritime trade not only presents safety and security challenges, but can also have an adverse impact to the marine environment, including due to pollution and degradation of natural habitats. This is why, stated His Majesty, maritime cooperation is a priority area in the AOIP in which such issues can be jointly addressed. To this end, working together with Australia is welcomed, to enhance maritime domain awareness for the sustainable management of marine resources, conserving biodiversity and ensuring safe and secure sea lanes. Touching on the ongoing and urgent global climate change challenge, His Majesty underlined the importance of cooperating with Australia on addressing the matter, which has resulted in more frequent severe weather events, caused damages to infrastructures and also disrupted agricultural activities.
ASEAN and Australia need to work together to mitigate the impacts of climate change on people’s lives and to fulfil the commitments made at the 28th Conference of the Parties, especially towards energy transition.
In ending the titah, Australia’s continued support through the Climate Change Action Strategy as well as their continued commitment to provide assistance to operationalise the ASEAN Centre for Climate Change in Brunei Darussalam, that will facilitate regional coordination and develop strategies to address climate change were greatly appreciated.
Meanwhile, His Majesty left Melbourne, Australia yesterday afternoon. Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.
Prior to departure, a Doa Selamat was recited by State Mufti Pehin Datu Seri Maharaja Dato Paduka Seri Setia (Dr) Ustaz Haji Awang Abdul Aziz bin Juned.
Present at Melbourne Jet Base to bid farewell to His Majesty was High Commissioner of Australia to Brunei Darussalam Luke Arnold and personnel from Brunei Darussalam’s High Commission in Canberra, Australia.
