BRUNEI-MUARA

HIS Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday called on the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) to be vigilant in facing challenges towards defending the nation.

In his titah at the RBAF’s 53rd anniversary celebration, the Defence Minister and Supreme Commander underscored the importance of raising awareness to overcome existing and unforeseen challenges that could potentially disrupt the country’s peace and stability.

As the cornerstone of national security, the military should be “more robust, great and high-performing” in addressing current obstacles as well as forging regional and international relations, the monarch said.

Meanwhile, all efforts to boost capability needs to be planned systematically based on the “raise, train and sustain” principle, with the aim of enabling the RBAF to perform its operational duties effectively and efficiently.

As a large and dynamic institution, His Majesty advised all sections and units in the RBAF to remain sensitive in their respective plans in accordance with strategic level thinking.

The Sultan pointed out that among the proactive steps undertaken at management level is a comprehensive approach through “an aligned situation and as a strong work culture” in line with the vision and aim of defence.

“I am certain that a clear alignment and mission will be able to instill motivation and responsibility more effectively,” he added.

Although defence is a top priority requiring big resources and spending, His Majesty said financial accountability is crucial in avoiding its misuse. The Sultan elaborated that spending and acquisition should be made wisely as opposed to undertaking shortcuts that involve wasted expenditure.

The monarch also expressed confidence over RBAF’s capability, following its ongoing involvement in peacekeeping operations in Lebanon and Mindanao.

Looking back on the contributions made by military personnel in protecting the country, His Majesty explained that the ensuing peace and stability is a blessing from Allah SWT.

“As Allah’s blessing, we must be grateful to have a land that is peaceful and prosperous,” His Majesty said.

In ending his titah at the Air Force Base in Rimba, the monarch thanked all RBAF members for their service as well as representing the country in the international arena.

The Brunei Times