MUARA NAVAL BASE, Friday, 15 September 2023 – In a significant display of regional cooperation and commitment to maritime security, the Royal Brunei Navy's (RBN) KDB DARULEHSAN has embarked on an 11-day deployment to Batam, Republic of Indonesia, to participate in the ASEAN Solidarity Exercise – 01 Natuna (ASEX – 01N) 2023. This exercise, organised by the Indonesian National Armed Forces, represents another opportunity to strengthen partnerships within ASEAN.
The send-off ceremony for this deployment was attended by Captain Haji Mohamad Sarif Pudin bin Matserudin, Acting Commander RBN, as the Guest of Honour. Joining him were members of the RBN Executive Board, officers, ratings, and family members of the deployed personnel. The ceremony commenced with Asar prayer in the ship’s Surau followed by an interaction session with ship’s officers and crew, and doa which was recited by Muhammad Sabqi bin Nasar, RBN Religious Teacher, invoking blessings and safety for the mission ahead.
KDB DARULEHSAN is captained by Lieutenant Commander Md Zulyamin bin Md Noor, RBN and further consists of 68 personnel, which include ship officers, crew members, and various attachments including a medical officer, religious personnel, and Naval Surface Action Group (NAVSAG) personnel.
The Royal Brunei Navy's active involvement underscores its steadfast commitment to bolstering multilateral partnerships and contributing to the overall peace and stability of the region's waters. Furthermore, the RBN's presence in ASEX – 01N 2023 reaffirms its dedication to upholding ASEAN centrality and promoting constructive interactions with ASEAN dialogue partners.
