BALI, INDONESIA, 16 February 2025 – The Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy (RBN), Captain Sahibul Bahari bin Haji Zainal Abidin, RBN, accompanied by his spouse, Mrs. Haniwati binti Haji Bakar, led Brunei Darussalam’s participation in the Multilateral Naval Exercise Komodo (MNEK) 2025 and the International Maritime Security Symposium (IMSS) 2025, further strengthening the nation’s role in regional maritime security and defence diplomacy.MNEK 2025, hosted by the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL) in Bali, brought together naval forces from over 15 countries, focusing on humanitarian assistance, disaster relief (HADR), and naval diplomacy. While Brunei did not deploy a vessel for the exercise, two RBN officers, Lieutenant Commander Aliashim bin Alias, RBN, and Lieutenant Commander Mohamad Aiezuddin bin Julaini, RBN, participated as observers, gaining valuable insights into multinational maritime operations. A key highlight of the event was the International Fleet Review (IFR), where Captain Sahibul Bahari and other senior officers observed a grand sailpast from the TNI AL hospital ship KRI dr. Radjiman Wedyodiningrat, symbolizing naval unity and collaboration. The exercise also included professional exchanges on HADR, a Command Post Exercise, and a City Parade, where naval personnel engaged with the local community, fostering stronger ties.
The International Maritime Security Symposium (IMSS) 2025, held in conjunction with MNEK, provided a platform for strategic discussions on the theme “Addressing Maritime Security Challenges with Technology and Cooperation.” The symposium served as an important forum for exchanging ideas on enhancing maritime security through innovation, collaboration, and multilateral efforts. Brunei’s participation further emphasized its commitment to defence diplomacy, information-sharing, and regional cooperation in addressing emerging maritime security challenges.
During the event, Captain Sahibul Bahari actively engaged in high-level diplomatic and defence activities, including attending the Opening Ceremony, Gala Dinner, and holding bilateral meetings with naval counterparts from Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Australia, Canada, the Philippines, and Kenya. These discussions reinforced Brunei’s defence relations and explored future opportunities for collaboration in maritime security.
Accompanying Captain Sahibul Bahari was Defence Attaché of Brunei Darussalam to Indonesia, Commander Shahmun Azimin bin Haji Awang Asli, RBN, along with Lieutenant Commander Husaini bin Haji Mohamad Sofian, who served as his accompanying officer.
Through its active participation in MNEK and IMSS 2025, Brunei Darussalam continues to play a leading role in fostering regional peace, stability, and maritime cooperation, in line with its Defence Diplomacy policy.
