Bandar Seri Begawan - An awards ceremony yesterday saw the presentation of Long Service and Good Conduct medals to 260 officers of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) officers, including retired members of the RBAF at the military's Training Institution in Penanjong Garrison.

The guest of honour at the ceremony - which was officiated by the Logistics Depot Commanding Officer, Lieutenant Colonel Haji Mohd Doon bin Hj Mohammad - was the RBAF Commander, Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin, who presented the medals.

Recipients comprised male recruits from the intakes 84, 85, 86, 87 and 88; young military recruits from intakes 23, 24, 25 and 26; and female military recruits from intakes 15, 16, 17 and 18.

The parade was led by one of the recipients, Lieutenant Colonel (L) Pg Mohamad bin Pg Hj Damit.

The RBAF Commander stressed that the military needs to increase its efforts in maintaining an identity of a proud institution.

He added that the military needs to be more proactive and concerned with efforts to instil better spiritual values and to develop moral characteristics based on the concept of Malay Islamic Monarchy Always learn and use the opportunities available in the RBAF to improve knowledge of the military and religion; improve self-discipline, comradeship and professionalism by being confident and competent," he said.

He went on to also explained that the RBAF has produced individuals with skills and experience, particularly retired personnel, who have gone on to become members of the Legislative Council, ambassadors and commissioners, and village heads.

Only personnel who have served for a minimum of 18 years and have a perfectly clean record with no offences committed in both civil and military life can qualify for these medals.

--Courtesy of Borneo Bulletin