Adding a Boost to Close Ties

(The RSN delegation underwent COVID-19 tests which are negative. They are adhering to local COVID-19 regulations while in Brunei.)

Our Chief of Navy Rear Admiral (RADM) Aaron Beng reaffirmed ties with our Bruneian friends recently during his introductory visit there. From 8 to 10 Dec 2020, he met with Brunei Defence Minister II Pehin Datu Lailaraja Major General (MG) (Rtd) Dato Paduka Seri Haji Awang Halbi bin Haji Md Yussof, Commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces Major-General (U) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Hamzah bin Haji Sahat, and Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy First Admiral (FADM) Dato Seri Pahlawan Haji Othman bin Haji Suhaili @ Suhaily. 

RADM Beng (left) called on Pehin MG(Rtd) Halbi (right) during his visit.

During his visit, RADM Beng was also presented with the RBN Command Badge by FADM Dato Othman, in recognition and appreciation of RADM Beng's service in enhancing the relations between both navies. Additionally, RADM Beng joined FADM Dato Othman in attending a virtual leadership engagement session by United States Navy Pacific Fleet.

RADM Beng (left) being presented with the RBN Command Badge.

RADM Beng (extreme right) and FADM Dato Othman (middle) took some time to jointly attend the USN's Pacific Fleet Key Leadership Engagement.

Since ties between the navies were established in 1979, it has grown from strength to strength. We have built strong friendships and deepened mutual trust over the years through bilateral exercises, and professional visits, professional exchanges, and cross-attendance of courses.

The conduct of this year's at-sea Exercise Pelican in July bears testament to the strong understanding and interoperability that both navies have established. Planned virtually, both navies were able to conduct a series of drills including gunnery firings and communication exercises while sailing together to Hawaii for the Rim of the Pacific Exercise.

RSN's frigate, RSS Supreme, exercised with RBN's offshore patrol vessel, KDB Darulehsan.

RADM Beng's visit underscores the strong defence ties between Singapore and Brunei. As we move towards 2021, we look forward to further strengthening of ties as we commemorate the 45th anniversary of defence relations between the two countries.