Global diplomacy thrives on strategic partnerships, economic collaboration, and sustainable development. A recent high-level discussion between officials from the Brunei Economic Development Board (BEDB), Royal Brunei Airlines, and Expert United Marine Services LLC in Dubai underscored the potential for deeper bilateral relations and economic growth.
Chaired by Mr. N M Panicker, Honorary Trade Commissioner of Brunei Darussalam to the India Commonwealth Trade Council and Founder & Managing Director of Expert United Marine Services, the meeting focused on infrastructure development, trade expansion, and aviation growth.
Members in Attendance:
- Ms. Pg Hjh Siti Nadiah binti Pg Dato Paduka Hj Azmansham, Manager, Lead and Opportunity Management, BEDB
- Mr. Sheikh Md Naqib bin Dato Paduka Hj Sheikh Adnan, Development Executive, Lead and Opportunity Management, BEDB
- Mr. Jalal Sanaur Rahman, Country Manager (UAE), Royal Brunei Airlines, Dubai
- Mr. Daies Idiculla, Business Consultant & Chief Librarian, Gulf Medical University
- Mr. Praveen Kumar, IT Consultant, Web Access Pro, Dubai
A key topic was the development of an international sea port in Brunei, a strategic project that could transform the nation’s maritime industry. Mr. Panicker emphasized the economic benefits and formally submitted a proposal addressed to Captain (Ret) Zil Husam bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive of the Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD), and the Honourable Ambassador of Brunei in the UAE. The BEDB representatives confirmed the matter would be escalated to senior officials.
Another significant discussion was the proposal to establish an International Marine Academy in Brunei, which would provide maritime education and create employment opportunities. Mr. Panicker offered a free Marine Skills Development Training Program at Expert United Marine Services’ shipyard in Dubai for Bruneian staff and students and academic consultancy if the government pursues the initiative. The BEDB officials acknowledged the long-term value and agreed to communicate with relevant authorities.
The team also proposed the “Brunei Trade Exhibition: Bridging UAE Markets,” aimed at enhancing Bruneian business exposure in the UAE. The exhibition would serve as a platform for trade partnerships and investment opportunities. A formal proposal was submitted for review and further discussion with the Honourable Ambassador of Brunei in the UAE.
Aviation was another focus area, with discussions on expanding Royal Brunei Airlines’ market presence in India by launching a budget airline service to connect India to the Gulf. Mr. Jalal Sanaur Rahman, Country Manager (UAE) for Royal Brunei Airlines, assured that the proposal would be taken up with the airline’s leadership for consideration.
The meeting reinforced the importance of economic diplomacy in infrastructure, trade, and aviation. It concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration, ensuring Brunei’s economic growth through international engagement.
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