GADONG, Thursday, 9th November 2023 –
The closing ceremony for the 2nd ANTEEP was held at Jade Garden, Centrepoint Hotel, to mark the successful conduct of the program hosted by the Royal Brunei Navy from 6th November until 10th November 2023. Attending as the Guest of Honor was Captain Khairil Haji Abdul Rahman, RBN, the Acting Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy.

After the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah, the event proceeded with the delivery of the executive report on the outcome of the exchange program by Lieutenant Commander Haji Mohd Arnold bin Haji Osman, RBN, the chairman of 2nd ANTEEP 2023. He reported that the 2nd ANTEEP was conducted successfully, and all objectives were met. He highlighted the significance of sharing experiences, best practices and lessons learned in the realm of boarding operation, which can elevate operational preparedness and responsiveness. The event proceeded with a video montage showcasing the participants’ journey throughout the program, followed by a certificate presentation to the participants by the Guest of Honor. The event concluded with the recitation of Doa, dinner and a group photo session of the participants with the invited guests.

The 2nd ANTEEP consisted of 16 participants in total coming from 9 ASEAN countries: Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand & Vietnam. Throughout the program, participants had the opportunity to share their expertise and experience, particularly on this year’s exchange program themed “Visit, Board, Search & Seizure (VBSS)”, also known as “Boarding Operations.” This program allowed the participants to exchange professional insights and viewpoints in their respective fields. During the cultural visit program, the participants could immerse themselves in Brunei Darussalam’s rich and distinctive culture.

The 2nd ANTEEP hosted by the Royal Brunei Navy has successfully and effectively achieved its program goals, which compass the sharing of knowledge and expertise in countering maritime threats through the use of VBSS. It is hoped that the program will continue to enhance mutual cooperation and understanding, develop teamwork skills in a multilateral environment and, most importantly, strengthen friendships fostered between ASEAN navies to build trust and confidence in maintaining maritime security and sovereignty.