Royal Brunei Airlines (RB) has signed six new engineering apprentices into its structured development programme at a signing ceremony held at the Collaboration Hub, RB Campus.
The event marked a milestone in the national carrier’s talent development journey, with the successful candidates emerging from a highly competitive selection process that drew 470 applicants.
From this pool, 220 were shortlisted for screening, 91 progressed to written assessments and 14 reached the final interview stage, after which the six apprentices were selected.
They are Danial Haslin, Kieran Ong Jun Jie, Ahmad Danial Rushdi, Delwin Tang Lee Wun, Yasmein Ameina Haji Mohammad Affno and Nur Uzma Anati Haji Ismail.
In her speech, the Interim Chief Executive Officer of Royal Brunei Airlines, Colonel Norsuriati Haji Sharbini, addressed the new intake, emphasising the profound responsibility that comes with the role.
“Remember this: engineering is not just about machines—it is about responsibility, teamwork, precision and trust. Every bolt tightened, every system checked, contributes to the safety and confidence of every passenger that we serve,” she said.
The ICEO further underscored the significance of the occasion. “Today, we are not just witnessing a formal signing ceremony. We are witnessing the beginning of six promising young talents that will help shape the future of our airline.”
She also reminded the apprentices that their commitment extended beyond the programme itself. “As you sign today, you are not only committing to a programme. You are committed to excellence, integrity and continuous learning.”
On the sidelines, two apprentices, Danial Haslin and Yasmein Ameina, shared their enthusiasm and inspiration to become aircraft engineers for the national carrier.
For Danial, the dream began during a school trip in Year 10 to RB. “We had a tour around the hangar, and I was like, I really want this job,” he said.
The Jerudong International School alumnus took his A-Levels in Physics, Maths and Design and Technology, sharing that he applied for the apprenticeship programme twice. “I applied during my A-Levels. Then I applied again because I really wanted this,” he explained.
He added that he had an interest in planes from a young age, but after seeing what RB had during the tour, he started having a deep interest in them.
His hands-on experience includes building an aquaponics setup for a school project. “I ended up building it, and that’s when I realised I really like this kind of work,” he recalled.
Why RB? Danial praised the company’s environment. “I just like the environment they have, the work culture here, as well as the opportunity that they have provided for us,” he said.
The training will take him to Brisbane – his first time living abroad long-term. “I’m very excited,” he said. “Life there is definitely going to be very different from life here. I’m really looking forward to experiencing all that in the next two years.”
Danial’s parents: Grateful and proud
Danial’s mother, Zainab Mohamed, said the family was excited for him to go. “Can’t wait for him to go away, actually. Venture, explore the world,” she said. She added that they were very grateful to the Government of His Majesty the Sultan and to RB for the opportunity.
His father, Haslin Hj Abdul Ghani, explained that Danial was also inspired by a relative who works in the airline industry. “He said: ‘I’m going to be in there. I’m going to follow suit’,” his father recalled.
They described Danial as very independent and hands-on. “He likes to do a lot of practical things, like woodcrafting. He even taught himself how to weld,” his father said.
Danial’s mother offered a final piece of advice to her son: “Mama and Baba pray the best for Danial and his friends. It’s teamwork. Safety is the most important. Integrity must be there,” she concluded.
Yasmein: Inspired by a female engineer
Yasmein Ameina, 19, has just finished her A-Levels in Physics, Maths and Technology. “Starting from O-Levels, I was very good at Physics. So I thought I should continue with technology,” she said.
When asked about being a young woman in a male-dominated field, Yasmein was unfazed. “As a girl, it is not really a problem… I can do it too,” she said, adding that she draws inspiration from female engineers.
Why aircraft engineering? Yasmein was honest. “When I saw this application, they guaranteed a job. So I want to be secure with my future,” she said.
Yasmein’s parents: Pride and trust
Yasmein’s father, Haji Mohd Affno, spoke with pride. When asked how he felt when he learned his daughter had been accepted into the programme, he said: “Alhamdulillah, proud. Overwhelmed. Her dream has come true.”
He explained that Yasmein’s interest in engineering came naturally. One of her older brothers is also in a similar programme. “From a young age, we saw that she especially likes building things,” he said.
He mentioned the automatic cat food dispenser she built at home as an example of her technical ability.
Yasmein is the sixth of eight children – four boys and four girls. “We thank RB for giving our daughter this opportunity,” he said. “RB has given her a chance and believes in her potential – not just academically, but in her brainstorming, critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Yasmein is independent. She is capable.”
Building world-class aviation talent
The apprenticeship programme reflects RB’s continued commitment to building a strong pipeline of local aviation talent in support of industry growth and national development priorities. As part of its effort to provide world-class training, RB has been working closely with Aviation Australia since December 2025 as its training partner.
Through this partnership, apprentices will benefit from internationally recognised training standards and exposure to global best practices. The multi-year programme combines theoretical instruction with hands-on practical experience within RB’s engineering and operational environment. It is designed to equip participants with the technical expertise, discipline and safety-focused mindset required in the aviation industry.
The current Intake 30 will be the second cohort undertaking the Diploma of Aircraft Maintenance Engineering, delivered by Aviation Australia – the only approved provider in Australia offering this pathway under the internationally recognised EASA Part 147 standard.
The 95-week programme includes 1,351 hours of theory training combined with 1,190 hours of practical training delivered at Aviation Australia’s headquarters based at the Brisbane Airport precinct.
RB currently has ten engineering apprentices from its first cohort undergoing training in Brisbane, Australia. According to insights from instructors and campus staff, the cohort’s professionalism, teamwork, and engagement throughout the programme have been exemplary, contributing positively to their learning environment.
Aligning with Wawasan Brunei 2035
The ICEO highlighted that the initiative aligns directly with Wawasan Brunei 2035, which aspires to develop a highly skilled and educated workforce while ensuring a dynamic and sustainable economy.
“By investing in programmes such as this apprenticeship, we are contributing directly to building local expertise in high-value industries like aviation and supporting the nation’s long-term vision for growth and excellence,” she said.
She also noted that the aviation industry today is experiencing strong recovery and growth, with increasing demand for skilled engineers. “With increasing demand for air travel and advancements in aircraft technology, the need for highly skilled aviation professionals has never been greater,” she added.
Addressing the families present, the ICEO expressed heartfelt appreciation for their role in the apprentices’ success. “Alhamdulillah and thank you. Your prayers and unwavering support have played a vital role in this achievement. Today is your success as much as it is theirs.”
“From 470 applicants, through a rigorous and competitive process, you have emerged among the very best. This speaks not only of your capability, but also your determination and resilience,” said Colonel Norsuriati.
She reaffirmed RB’s vision to position itself not only as a leading airline in the region but also as an employer of choice, where talent is nurtured, careers are built and individuals are empowered to grow with purpose.
The ceremony was attended by RB senior management, staff, apprentices, and their families, marking the beginning of an exciting journey for the new intake as they embark on careers in aviation engineering.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
