MUARA, Wednesday, 30 October 2024—The Max Planck Foundation for International Peace and the Rule of Law is a German initiative that operates under the umbrella of the Max Planck Society, one of the most prestigious research organizations in Germany. The Max Planck Foundation, in cooperation with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, co-hosted the workshop titled “Implementing Agreements Under the UNCLOS” and was privileged to visit the Royal Brunei Navy. Participants included representatives from ASEAN countries and Timor-Leste.
The delegation, led by Ms Trang Pham, a Research Fellow at the Foundation, was received at the Naval Training Centre by Captain Haji Mohamad Sarif Pudin bin Matserudin, the Acting Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy and senior RBN officials. Also in attendance was Her Excellency Gerda Winkler, the German Ambassador to Brunei Darussalam.
The event began with a welcoming address by Captain Haji Mohamad Sarif Pudin bin Matserudin, the Acting Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy, who expressed appreciation for the Foundation’s contributions to nations seeking to establish resilient governance frameworks. Following the opening remarks, Commander Malek Fadillah bin Pehin Dato Juragan Laila Diraja Dato Seri Pahlawan Hj Kefli, the Assistant Chief of Staff for Operations, presented a corporate briefing. The briefing gave the Foundation’s representatives a comprehensive overview of RBN’s operational structure, initiatives, and strategic goals.
One of the highlights of the visit was a tour of the KDB DARULAMAN, one of RBN’s esteemed naval vessels. Delegates were given a firsthand look at the ship’s capabilities. During the ship visit, the delegation was treated to a traditional performance by the crew of KDB DARULAMAN, showcasing Brunei’s rich cultural heritage and its dedication to regional friendship and understanding.
The visit concluded with a gift session by the Acting Commander of the Royal Brunei Navy, who presented tokens of appreciation to the Max Planck Foundation delegation. This visit underscores the Royal Brunei Navy’s commitment to engaging with international institutions and promoting the shared goals of regional stability, governance, and adherence to the rule of law.
