1. His Majesty Visits the Philippines for the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings

His Majesty Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah Mu’izzaddin Waddaulah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Haji Omar ‘Ali Saifuddien Sa’adul Khairi Waddien, Sultan and Yang Di-Pertuan of Brunei Darussalam visited  Cebu, the Philippines on May 6th to 8th,to attend the 48th ASEAN Summit and Related Meetings. Accompanying His Majesty was His Royal Highness Prince ‘Abdul Mateen.

While attending the Plenary Session of the Summit, His Majesty expressed Brunei’s support for the implementation of the ASEAN Petroleum Security Agreement, the expansion of the ASEAN Power Grid, and the advancement of Trans-ASEAN Gas Pipeline. His Majesty emphasized that ASEAN must address energy-food linkages, and adopt measures such as strengthening emergency rice reserve to ensure food security. ASEAN member states should also enhance consular assistance to ASEAN nationals in third countries.

His Majesty also attended the Special BIMP-EAGA Summit, calling on member states to deepen cooperation in food, energy, connectivity, and logistics, and to expedite the establishment of a permanent secretariat.

2. Ministry of Education Holds 8th School Leaders Convention

On May 6th, the Ministry of Education hosted the 8th School Leaders Convention. The event focused on early intervention for students with SEN (Special Educational Needs) and promoting their holistic development. Minister of Education Yang Berhormat Datin Seri Setia Dr Hajah Romaizah binti Haji Mohd Salleh attended the opening ceremony and delivered remarks, stressing that early intervention should be embedded as a mindset within school structures, teaching practices, and culture of schools to ensure systematic implementation.

3. Fire and Rescue Department Celebrates 66th Anniversary

On May 7th, the Fire and Rescue Department under the Ministry of Home Affairs held its 66th anniversary celebration. Minister of Home Affairs Yang Berhormat Dato Seri Setia Awang Haji Ahmaddin bin Haji Abdul Rahman attended the event and delivered remarks, welcoming the Fire and Rescue Department’s efforts to strengthen the use of artificial intelligence and digital technologies. He also announced that Brunei’s Fire and Rescue Department will conduct a joint exercise with the Malaysian Fire and Rescue Department in September.