BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN

THE Sixth ‘Semangat Waja’ Exercise for the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) kicked off yesterday with an opening ceremony at the First Battalion Parade Square in Berakas Garrison.

 According to the Ministry of Defence (MinDef) in a press statement issued yesterday, this year’s exercise will be conducted in conjunction with the bilateral exercises codenamed ‘Maju Bersama’ and ‘Rintis Bersama’ with the Singapore Army. 

The bilateral exercises were aimed at increasing interoperability in military operations whilst enhancing the professionalism of personnel in performing their duties. 

In attendance at the opening was RBLF Deputy Commander Colonel Hj Muhd Haszaimi Bol Hassan. Also present were commanding officers of the battalions, logistics and combat support services as well as other army officers.

The ceremony began with a guard of honour mounted by personnel from across the RBLF and a parade led by Major Pg Sufri Pg Hj Rosli.

Afterwards, Colonel Hj Muhd Haszaimi presented the exercise armbands on the heads of the exercise control centre, referee and opposition. He also delivered a speech to mark the launching of ‘Semangat Waja’. 

Scheduled to take place from April 14 to 26, the objective of the exercise is to boost the preparedness of the RBLF. 

MinDef reminded members of the public to not be alarmed by the shooting, explosions or military movement particularly in rural areas.

‘Semangat Waja’ is expected to be carried out in all four districts nationwide.

The Brunei Times