The Maritime and Port Authority of Brunei Darussalam (MPABD) and Universiti Brunei Darussalam (UBD) have formalized their collaboration in the maritime sector by signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU). The agreement specifically focuses on enhancing work related to the Ballast Water Management Convention. The signing ceremony occurred at the Seri Kerna Hall, located within the MPABD Headquarters in Muara.
Event Overview
The event featured the attendance of Yang Berhormat Pengiran Dato Seri Setia Shamhary bin Pengiran Dato Paduka Haji Mustapha, Minister of Transport and Infocommunications and Chairman of MPABD, in the role of Guest of Honour. The MoU was signed by Yang Mulia Captain (Ret.) Zil Husam bin Haji Abdul Rahman, Chief Executive of MPABD, and Yang Mulia Dr. Hazri bin Haji Kifle, Vice-Chancellor of UBD. The signing was witnessed by Yang Mulia Captain Basza Alexzandar bin Haji Basri, Acting Port Master of MPABD, and Yang Mulia Dr. Haji Abdul Hanif bin Dato Paduka Haji Mahadi, Assistant Vice-Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Sustainability at UBD.
Goals of the Collaboration
The MoU creates a collaborative framework intended to promote maritime research, education, and operational practices. It aims to develop testing capabilities for the Ballast Water Management Convention within UBD’s laboratory to ensure adherence to international standards. This initiative is anticipated to further applied research and monitoring activities in Brunei’s waters, while also offering students opportunities for practical placements and postgraduate research projects, which will enhance their research skills.
Future Initiatives
Efforts under this agreement are expected to advance maritime capabilities through joint research initiatives and institutional partnerships. It also aims to improve training opportunities and facilitate the establishment of a joint laboratory facility at UBD. The MoU supports the creation of new academic programs and encourages flexible collaboration.
Significance for Brunei Darussalam
This partnership is significant for Brunei Darussalam as it seeks to ratify the International Maritime Organization (IMO) Ballast Water Management Convention. By aligning local practices with international requirements, the collaboration aims to enhance testing capacity and develop necessary infrastructure for efficient ballast water management, thereby providing essential guidance and support to stakeholders for compliance with global regulations.
Conclusion
The signing of the MoU is viewed as a key step towards implementing international maritime conventions and promoting sustainable development within Brunei Darussalam. The ceremony was attended by the Permanent Secretary and Deputy Permanent Secretaries of the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications, along with senior officials from various government agencies and representatives from UBD.
(Source: UBD)
