Lyna Mohamad
The Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) should be aware that technological advancements are capable of providing a counterbalance to a shortage in the workforce.
This was highlighted by His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam in a titah delivered at the Sovereign’s Parade Ceremony for the 19th intake of officer cadets at the Officer Cadet School yesterday.
“Technological applications should be taken into consideration to improve the efficiency and competency of management, administration and serviceability. Advances in technology are also closely related to cyber capability, which is a new challenge for the RBAF on how to face related threats,” His Majesty said.
The monarch also noted that military training has continued to be carried out, despite the COVID-19 pandemic, with the use of technology.
“Alternative learning has been implemented with great success, which proves that courses and other forms of training can be delivered effectively through digital means,” His Majesty said.
The monarch congratulated the cadet officers for their determination and spirit in completing the course, while emphasising, “As a leader, a young officer particularly requires strong commitment and integrity, aside from being a constant role model to those under his command.
“With regard to this, I wish to remind all of you to always maintain your sense of discipline and professionalism. I also urge all of you to preserve your religious faith to obtain Allah the Almighty’s blessings and protection from adverse effects.
“Alhamdulillah, the Defence Academy of the RBAF celebrated its 10th anniversary on November 25, 2020. Throughout the decade, the academy has successfully trained 2,216 local and foreign military officers through various courses, including 605 officer cadets.
“I am proud of the transformation of the Defence Academy of the RBAF to now having its own camp; forming collaboration with local and overseas institutions of higher learning; and the ability to attract regional and international course participants, which recently produced diploma and degree graduates, such as Masters in Defence and Security Studies, through collaborations with Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD),” His Majesty said.