BRUNEI-MUARA

THE new Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN) yesterday outlined three targets or main focus he wished to pursue.

In his inaugural speech as RBN Commander, First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Abd Aziz Hj Mohd Tamit said that the first focus was to reform the leadership and structure of the navy, as “pioneered” by the former commander.

This would allow the navy increase its capability, in anticipation of the roles and responsibilities that will be entrusted to the RBN in the future, he explained.

The second focus would be to improve the RBN’s capabilities in all aspects, such as operations, administration and logistics.

“We must achieve the best capability possible, so that it is in line with the budget allocated by the government (to the RBN),” he said.

“The RBN has a major role in safeguarding the safety and security in the waters of Brunei Darussalam, wherein lies the country’s main economic source,” he added.

Apart from acquiring modern and advanced equipment, First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Abd Aziz stressed the need for effective training for the RBN personnel’s welfare.

“Effective leadership is imperative for us to achieve a high level of preparedness at all times.”

The third focus, said First Admiral Dato Hj Abd Aziz, was to enhance interoperability with other security and defence agencies.

He said participation in bilateral and multi-lateral exercises should be continued, be it at the national, regional or international level.

“With this improvement in interoperability, RBN will be more capable to productively contribute towards strengthening the national commitment in preserving peace, nationally and internationally,” he said.

“What is clear is that we will face a very challenging future, but with vigilance towards the level of professionalism and commitment of all the members of the RBN, I am confident that with coordination and unified direction, we will be able to overcome any challenge (that may arise),” noted the RBN Commander.

The Brunei Times