'Beyond the uniform': Singapore, Brunei officers share stories of lasting friendships as defence ties turn 50
"We encouraged each other, learned from one another and, most importantly, knew that we were not navigating those challenges alone," says one Brunei air force officer.
Singapore and Brunei defence officials have been forging lasting friendships for over half a century, as their military ties celebrate their 50th anniversary. Lieutenant Colonel Shahreel Adam from the Singapore Army and Major Mahmud Afifi Mohn Kifli from the Royal Brunei Land Force first met in 2023 at the Singapore Armed Forces Command and Staff College.
The pair bonded over shared interests, including food and football, and quickly became close friends. Their friendship has since transcended their military roles, meeting annually to reminisce about their Command and Staff College days and discuss work challenges. The bond between Singapore and Brunei's defence forces dates back to their establishment in 1965 and 1961, respectively, with formal defence relations dating back to 1976.
The relationship has grown through years of military cooperation and bilateral exercises, and this year marks the 50th anniversary of these ties. The friendship between LTC Shahreel and MAJ Afifi is a testament to the strong relationship between the two armies and highlights the value of having a good friend and counterpart on the other side.
Written by urgent.news from CNA - Singapore's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
This story
This is one outlet's version. Read the fullest account.
