| Azlan Othman |
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 yesterday addressed the close ties between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, particularly in the fields of investment, defence, tourism and health.
“I believe such relations are the main principle towards a heightened understanding and faith between both countries,” said His Majesty in a titah during the official luncheon at the Istana Nurul Iman, in honour of the visit by Prime Minister of Malaysia Tun Dato Laila Utama Dr Mahathir bin Mohamad, and spouse Tun Datin Dr Siti Hasmah binti Mohd Ali.
Her Majesty Duli Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Hajah Saleha binti Al-Marhum Pengiran Pemancha Pengiran Anak Haji Mohamed Alam was also present.
“One instance of meaningful cooperation is in the field of defence, where Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia continue to forge closer ties through joint military training and peace-keeping missions,” said His Majesty.
“The annual Joint Consultation between both countries, held since 1997, is a crucial platform for both countries to exchange views related to bilateral issues. It is a tradition worth continuing.
“I observe with deep respect, Malaysia’s ability and efforts to generate its economy, particularly in agriculture. There are many measures and efforts to be learned, and Brunei Darussalam is embarking towards self-sufficiency in this field. We are hopeful of cooperation with Malaysia, which is a country with a wealth of experience, compared to Brunei Darussalam.”
Tun Dato Laila Utama Dr Mahathir responded that Brunei-Malaysia relations have a long history as both share a common language and a Muslim culture.
“Although there are some non-Muslims among the populace, we are Islamic nations and brothers, and the ties between both countries are the bonds of brotherhood,” he said.
“Cooperation between both countries brings many benefits, among which includes security in the district areas here.
“I hope such cooperation will continue with understanding between the governments of both countries.”
The Malaysian Prime Minister added, “I should have visited Brunei Darussalam earlier as His Majesty was the first foreign leader to meet me after I was sworn-in as the Prime Minister of Malaysia for the second time, in May. But due to work commitment to recover Malaysia, which took up my time, I could not make it. I pray that such brotherly ties between both nations will be lasting.”