The Max Planck Foundation for International Peace and the Rule of Law (MPFPR) launched two workshops focused on the Law of the Sea. The workshops coincide with the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Germany and Brunei Darussalam.
Organised in collaboration with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the Attorney General’s Chambers and the German Embassy in Brunei Darussalam, the workshops delve into the evolving interpretation, application and global agreements established under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
The initial workshop, held from October 29 to 31, was attended by participants from all ASEAN member states, Timor-Leste and representatives from the ASEAN Secretariat. A second workshop will engage officials from key Bruneian agencies. A highlight of the workshop was a session hosted by the Royal Brunei Navy at its Naval Training Centre. Acting Commander Captain Haji Mohamad Sarif Pudin bin Matserudin welcomed attendees and provided a briefing on the navy’s responsibilities. Participants toured the KDB Darulaman at Jetty Bravo, interacting with the crew and experiencing a cultural performance.
German Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam Gerda Winkler and participants expressed gratitude for the visit, recognising it as a memorable experience that deepened their understanding of regional maritime issues.
The workshops, funded by the German Federal Foreign Office, underscore the growing cooperation between ASEAN member states and Germany in promoting maritime security and sustainable ocean resource use. – Fadley Faisal
