MUARA, Wednesday, 19 April 2023 –
The closing ceremony for the Sub-Lieutenant Course (SLC) 2023 for 14 young officers including first an international officer from the Republic Singapore Navy (RSN) was held at Nakhoda Hall, Naval Training Centre (NTC).
The SLC 2023 was successfully conducted by NTC in collaboration with RBTS for 14 weeks from 16th January 2023 until 19th April 2023 comprising subjects on Navigation, Communications, Basic Warfare and Fire Fighting and Damage Control. The course aims to train young officers in navigating ships safely in order to hold the Officer of the Watch (OOW) appointment onboard RBN ships, and to enhance their professionalism of being a competent OOW and be able to execute coastal and ocean Passage Planning.
Present as the ceremony’s Guest of Honour was the Commandant of Naval Training, Commander Willie bin Padan. Also in presence was Lieutenant Colonel Koh Tai Wee, Assistant Defence Adviser of Republic of Singapore to Brunei Darussalam and the Ships Commanding Officers, Executive Officers, as well as the course instructors from NTC and Royal Brunei Technical Service (RBTS). The event commenced with the recitation of Surah Al-Fatihah led by Ustaz Hj Mas Ismandi bin Hassan to bless the event. Representing RBTS, Florent Lagny delivered course completion speech and highlighted that the SLC acts as a learning tools where young officers’ true competency as seamen can only be attained through active consistent personal participation and practicing the knowledge gained from the course.
The event then proceeded with a speech by the international course participant from RSN, LTA Vivian Toh Hui Sze as the course representative. In her heart-felt speech, she shared that it was necessary to be uncomfortable for growth to take place and urges her fellow course mates to embrace the times they are uncomfortable as it brings an opportunity for growth. Another lesson she had shared was the power to influence in inspiring others to do good by exhibiting exemplary values as a young officer. She also shared some of her bittersweet memories throughout her journey and expressed her gratitude as she felt a deep sense of belonging in the Royal Brunei Navy. To date, this was the first time in RBN’s history to have an international officer participating in the local course. To conclude the event doa was recited and followed by group photos.
