Mohammad Nazri (seated centre) in a group photo with Joint Committee members. - MTIC
BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The longstanding cooperation and close relations between Brunei Darussalam and Malaysia, particularly in the transport sector, have enhanced economic ties and facilitated the movement of people and goods between the two countries, said Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications (MTIC) Ir Mohammad Nazri Mohammad Yusof.
He said this while co-chairing the inaugural 1st Brunei Darussalam-Malaysia Joint Committee for Cooperation in the Field of Transport (BMJCT) on Wednesday (Oct 8) via video conference, alongside Secretary General, Transport Ministry of Malaysia Dato’ Seri Jana Santhiran Muniayan as Malaysia’s co-chair.
Mohammad Nazri also highlighted the modernisation of the bilateral Air Services Agreement in 2023; connectivity by sea transport through the Serasa-Labuan RO-RO and ferry services; and land transport connectivity through the various improvements in road infrastructure both in-country and cross-border.
He said this demonstrates the enduring mutual goal to enhance connectivity between both countries, ensuring smoother travel and logistics.
He also underscored the importance of both countries’ strong partnership in strengthening the region’s position, through foras such as Asean, BIMP-EAGA, International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), and International Maritime Organization (IMO).
The BMJCT was formed following the signing of the memorandum of cooperation between the government of Sultan Hassanal Bolkiah and the government of Malaysia on Aug 26, 2024 on the sidelines of the 25th Annual Leaders Consultation (ALC) in Bandar Seri Begawan.
It aimed to discuss areas for cooperation including in the facilitation of movement of goods and passengers, transport technologies and innovations and logistics.
The meeting also saw the BMJCT endorsing the Terms of Reference (TOR) and its Work Plan for the year 2026, which will guide the Joint Committee and its members in implementing the objectives of the MoU.
Deputy Permanent Secretary (Transport) at the MTIC Haji Mohammad Salihin Aspar was also present as part of Brunei Darussalam’s Joint Committee. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN
