Lyna Mohamad
Permanent Secretary (Energy) at the Ministry of Energy and Interim Managing Director of the Petroleum Authority of Brunei Darussalam Haji Azhar bin Haji Yahya officiated and witnessed the promotion of Brunei Gas Carriers Sdn Bhd (BGC) ship officers and the signing of BGC’s new cadets at the Maritime Talent Pipeline Achievement Ceremony at the Indera Samudra Grand Hall, The Empire Brunei yesterday.
The event began with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah followed by a welcoming remark by BGC Managing Director John Douglas Cook.
He said the country has always had a rich maritime heritage with shipping playing an essential role in supporting the nation’s economy.
He also said BGC remains an important asset to the Sultanate as the country relies on its oil and gas trade as one of its major revenue streams and it is imperative for the industry to continually develop strategies ensuring safety and sustainability both for the raw materials that are transported and also for its people.
The managing director said BGC aims to be the leading developer of local shipping and maritime skills from cadet level up to senior management in support of Brunei Vision 2035 and befitting its own mission of developing the nation’s resources for safe, reliable and sustainable maritime transportation.
Yesterday’s series of ceremonies demonstrate BGC’s efforts to strengthen Bruneian workforce, to fill both employment and key positions within the company.
“We believe in having the right people, with the right skills, in the right jobs, who display the right behaviours and share the same commitment,” he said.
The promotion of seven BGC officers, including one who achieved the rank of Captain and the first under BGC’s own management since the completion of its Ship Management Transition, are a major accomplishment and a clear demonstration that BGC is progressing.
Fleet Manager Captain Abdul Mateen Abdurrahman Liew presented the promotions.
The managing director also spoke on the recognition awarded to BGC including full-term Document of Compliance (DoC) in June last year.
The award officially recognised BGC as a fully fledged ship owner and manager in its own right, and the first local deep-water shipping company in the country.
“We still have a long journey ahead and we will continue to strive to set the benchmark for Brunei’s maritime industry to help further strengthen the country’s economy,” said the managing director.
The ceremonies also saw the guest of honour touring the poster displays showcasing life at sea and the cadetship recruitment process.