When the Royal Brunei Armed Forces was first established fifty years ago on 31 May 1961, known back then as the Brunei Malay Regiment, His Majesty Yang Maha Mulia Maulana Paduka Seri Begawan Al-Sultan Sir Muda Omar ‘Ali Saifuddin Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, stressed that its formation was essential part towards becoming a sovereign nation. Those heartfelt words remain true today. significant changes, Brunei Darussalam Although the security environment has undergone many under the guidance of His Majesty, continues to enjoy a positive strategic setting and sound relations with its neighbours. Consequently, the value of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces to the security and development of the nation has increased immensely. Indeed, the quite diverse set of security-related tasks and challenges facing the nation at present and in the future has further strengthened their relevance to meet the expectations and the trust of the populace whilst remaining credible to the nation. The new Defence White Paper, provides strong basis and clear guidelines for the planning of future RBAF requirements. Strong emphasis is placed on deliverable capabilities encompassing equipment, personnel and deployment supported by the requisite level of preparedness made in accordance to the prioritisation of tasks. The White Paper provides an integrated framework for operational planning and force preparedness bringing in doctrine development and capability programming. Considerable weight is equally placed on defence diplomacy and cooperative engagement intended to enhance interoperability internally and with the RBAF’s strategic partners. To achieve the policy objectives contained in the White paper, maximum focus and energy must be placed in its utilization by all RBAF’s unit future strategic, operational and tactical plans, aspirations and goals. My immense gratitude and sincerest thanks goes to the team for their efforts and Major General Dato Paduka Seri Haji Aminuddin Ihsan bin Pehin Orang Kaya Saiful Mulok Dato Seri Paduka Haji Abidin D.P.K.T, S.M.B, P.J.K, BSc (Hons), Fellow of ACDSS, MA, psc Commander Royal Brunei Armed Forces valuable time towards the promulgation of the new Defence White Paper. Wabilahitaufiq Walhidayah Was’salamualaikum Warahmatulahhi’ Wabarkatuh