MUARA, Thursday 13 June 2013 – “To defend the maritime sovereignty and territorial integrity of Brunei Darussalam”. For 48 years, this has been the mission that has been bestowed by the government of Brunei Darussalam to the Royal Brunei Navy, and for 48 years, the Navy has stamped their existence at sea in protecting the Country’s key national assets. Started with a very humble Boat Section in 1965, the Royal Brunei Navy has gone a long way to be where they are now today. As an honour to every single sacrifices and achievement that the men and women of past and present have contributed, the Royal Brunei Navy today celebrated their 48th year of establishment.
A Tahlil ceremony was held for the late parents of His Majesty The Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam, Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien and Al-Marhumah Duli Yang Teramat Mulia Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Damit at the Royal Mausoleum.
Attending the ceremony was Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy, First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Mohd Hanifah. Also attending the ceremony were officers and personnel of RBN.
Later in the evening, Khatam Al-Quran and Doa Kesyukuran ceremony were held at the Muara Naval Base Surau. First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Mohd Hanifah, Commander Royal Brunei Navy was the guest of honor.
Attending the event were a host of retired officers from RBN which included, Yang Berhormat Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Setia Dr Haji Mohd Yasmin bin Haji Umar, Yang Dimuliakan Pehin Datu Juragan Laila Diraja Dato Seri Pahlawan Colonel (Retd) Haji Kefli bin OKLS Haji Razali, Lieutenant Colonel (Rtd) Haji Mohammad Shahri bin Haji Mohd Ali and other RBN officers.
Ending the night, a dinner at the Senior Rates Mess, Muara Naval Base was organised where First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Mohd Hanifah delivered his speech. In his speech, he talked about the importance of unity and teamwork in maintaining professionalism. Especially in an uncertain and rapidly changing world, the Commander Royal Brunei Navy was quick to highlight the contribution that every personnel have contributed. The Commander also took the opportunity to deliver his gratitude to the guests who have graced the evening.
There will be a few more events organized by RBN to commemorate their 48th anniversary such as Mess Dinner, tree planting activity, family day and Navy run which will take place on a later date.
