By M K Anwar
His Majesty the Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam yesterday morning consented to attend the 85th anniversary parade of the Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF).
On arrival at the Parade Square, RBPF Training Centre in Gadong, the monarch, who is also the Inspector General of RBPF, was welcomed by Commissioner of Police Pehin Datu Kerma Setia CP Dato Paduka Seri Zainuddin bin Jalani.
Also in attendance were His Royal Highness Prince Hj Al-Muhtadee Billah, the Crown Prince and Deputy Inspector General of Police, HRH Prince Mohamed Bolkiah, Honorary Commissioner of Police, HRH Princess Hajah Masna, Commandant of the Women Police and HRH Princess Hajah Norain, Deputy Commandant of the Women Police.
The ceremony began with the national anthem, followed by a parade inspection by His Majesty.
Then, Sultan delivered a titah, reminding the police force to always be on guard against unwanted elements that aim to disrupt the nation's peace and prosperity.
The monarch also announced the establishment of the Criminal Intelligence Department and the launch of Group Takaful Scheme for police personnel.
The event also saw the changing of the "Panji-panji" (crest) of Royal Brunei Police Force, which His Majesty said symbolises a move into a new era and marks the continuing modernisation of the police force.
A doa was later read by the State Mufti before a march past by personnel from various sections of the RBPF.
The theme of RBPF's 85th anniversary is "Increasing the Professionalism of the Services for the Prosperity of the Community".
Several events have been lined up to commemorate RBPF's historical achievement.
- Borneo Bulletin
(19th Jan 2006)
