Malaysia, Brunei to deepen military ties through more training, exchanges

Malaysia and Brunei are set to enhance their military collaboration through increased exchanges, training programs, and joint efforts under ASEAN-led defense mechanisms, according to a joint statement released post their 27th Annual Leaders Consultation. The statement, issued by Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah of Brunei and Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia, underscores the commitment to bolstering ties between the Malaysian Armed Forces and the Royal Brunei Armed Forces.

This includes active training programs and cooperation under the United Nations Interim Force in Lebanon (UNIFIL).

Both leaders expressed satisfaction with the existing exchanges and training between the two armed forces, as well as their cooperative efforts under UNIFIL. Brunei also thanked Malaysia for the participation of their Royal Malaysian Air Force in the 65th anniversary of the RBAF in May.

Their agreement extends to strengthening cooperation through ASEAN-led defense mechanisms, such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus, aimed at addressing both traditional and non-traditional security challenges.

Regarding regional security, both nations strongly condemned attacks on UNIFIL peacekeepers, including members of the Malaysian Battalion (Malbatt) and the RBAF. They emphasized the imperative to ensure the safety and security of UN personnel, urging all parties to take immediate and concrete actions for accountability against attacks on UN personnel and premises, while respecting UN mandates under Security Council Resolutions 1701 (2006) and 2823 (2026).