The Royal Thai Embassy of Brunei Darussalam recently commemorated the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day at the Cesar Grand Hall, Mulia Hotel.
The event highlighted the longstanding and cordial defence relations between the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) and the Royal Thai Armed Forces through high-level visits, military education and training, as well as exchanges of experience and cooperation.
Commander of the RBAF Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi bin Bol Hassan attended as the guest of honour alongside spouse Datin Ummisyafinah binti Haji Zaini.
In his remarks, Defence Attaché at the Royal Thai Embassy Group Captain Woravit Pranet said the enduring partnership between the RBAF and Royal Thai Armed Forces is expected to continue strengthening in the years ahead.
He shared that Royal Thai Armed Forces Day is observed annually on January 18 to commemorate the courage, leadership and sacrifice of King Naresuan the Great, who fought for the freedom, independence and unity of the Thai Kingdom more than 400 years ago.
“His victory remains one of the most significant moments in Thai history and continues to inspire generations of Thai people, especially members of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, to serve the nation with loyalty, courage, and dedication,” he said.
Group Captain Woravit added that the occasion also honours the sacrifices and devotion of Thai military personnel, past and present, who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty, territorial integrity, peace and stability.
“Their commitment reflects the core values of the Royal Thai Armed Forces: loyalty to the nation, religion, and monarchy, as well as the determination to serve the people,” he said.
He further noted that the Royal Thai Armed Forces recognise the importance of strengthening defence and security cooperation with friendly countries and international organisations.
Meanwhile, Ambassador-Designate of Thailand to Brunei Darussalam Akrapong Chalermnon welcomed the guest of honour and invited guests.
The ambassador-designate highlighted that the Royal Thai Armed Forces, through the Armed Forces Development Command, are also committed to socio-economic development and global peace through United Nations peacekeeping operations.
“A modern military is measured not by its strength, but rather by its capacity to build resilience and prosperity for the people,” he said.
He added that Thailand and Brunei Darussalam have enjoyed robust and close ties at all levels over the past 42 years, including under the ASEAN framework.
“The Royal Thai Armed Forces, in this regard, has played a significant role in fostering this relation through regular visits, exchanges, and cooperation,” he said.
The reception commenced with the national anthems of Brunei Darussalam and Thailand, while a highlight of the evening was the presentation of a token of appreciation to Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Muhammad Haszaimi and spouse.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
