MUARA, Wednesday 29 May 2013 – His Excellency Dr. Tony Tan Keng Yam, The President of the Republic of Singapore arrived at the Muara Naval Base where he was greeted by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Dato Paduka Haji Mustappa bin Haji Sirat, the Commander of The Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF), Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin and also the Commander of Royal Brunei Navy (RBN), First Admiral Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Abdul Halim bin Haji Mohd Hanifah.
Upon arrival, His Excellecy was accorded with the Guard of Honor exhibited by personnel of the Royal Brunei Navy.
The Commander of the RBAF, in his opening remarks pointed out the evidence of the strong bilateral relations between Brunei and Singapore. His Excellency, Dr. Tony Tan Keng Yam, accompanied by top officials and members of the Parliament was also given a brief about the rapid development that the Royal Brunei Navy has experienced in recent years by the Commander of the RBN. He also highlighted the never ending cooperation that exist between the Royal Brunei Navy and Republic Singapore Navy, emphasizing the strong bilateral ties between both countries. The Royal Brunei Navy, known for its fleet, also had the honour to give a tour for His Excellency at one of the Darussalam class Patrol Vessel, KDB Darussalam.
This visit has reaffirmed the strong ties between Singapore and Brunei. Especially in an uncertain and rapidly changing world, the depth and strength of the bilateral relations remains an anchor. His Excellency is in Brunei for a three-day state visit at the invitation of the Sultan of Brunei Darussalam.
This is his first State visit to Brunei since becoming President in 2011. Singapore and Brunei are more than just partners with good relations as it is believed that both countries share similar views and interests. Both countries have unique arrangements from extensive defence relations to the currency interchangeability agreement.
