Opening of Officer Cadet School hailed as historic moment
By Lyna Mohamad & Azrol Azmi

His Royal Highness Prince General Haji Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Deputy Sultan, called yesterday morning's opening ceremony for the Officer Cadet School as another historic moment in the advancement of the Ministry of Defence and Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF).

HRH consented to officiate the ceremony and delivered a sabda.

"The establishment of the Officer Cadet School is in line with the aspiration of the Ministry of Defence and Royal Brunei Armed Forces to upgrade the level of professionalism of its personnel and subsequently the provision of education, training and courses conducted locally and continuously for all levels in RBAF.

"The institution will also play an important contribution role in achieving the nation's aspiration to further advance the education sector and make the sultanate a centre for knowledge in this region, adding that efforts and contribution of Ministry of Defence towards is greatly appreciated.

"In my opinion, with the provision of the latest and most sophisticated and latest facilities, as well as comprehensively systematic programmes, this school will enhance the appeal and opportunities for youths to pursue the military service and careers," said the Deputy Sultan.

The arrival of the widely experienced foreign instructors, HRH noted, will also have a major role in producing a generation of excellent officers who possess high levels of skills and leadership.

"This follows in line with His Majesty's titah during the 47th anniversary of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces last May, regarding the importance for every officer to achieve a very high level of leadership to be exemplified by their subordinates."

In other words, HRH added, it is envisaged that the establishment of this school will be able to fulfil the overall manpower requirements of the Ministry of Defence and RBAF in terms of quality and quantity.

"This represents an achievement to be proud of, which will not only raise the quality of the trainees involved but most importantly it will also contribute to the development of the nation in the near future and in time to come.

"I hope, this effort will be continued and further developed to include the acceptance of trainees from outside the country. The presence of foreign trainees will not only showcase the efforts of the Ministry of Defence in embedding the concept of life-long learning in the military, but also contribute in forging closer ties of friendship and confidence building with friendly nations," said the Deputy Sultan.

HRH, in conclusion, called on the teaching staff and officers involved to provide the highest level of service and quality of education based upon professionalism and an excellent level of discipline. - Borneo Bulletin (27th August 2008)


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