BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN: The contributions of female police officers over the last 50 years have improved the standing of women in society as a whole, said Her Royal Highness Princess Masna, Commandant of the Women’s Police, Royal Brunei Police Force (RBPF) in a sabda on Saturday (Aug 24).
During the Golden Jubilee celebration of the establishment of the Women’s Police, Her Royal Highness said that the development of the women’s police began with providing support services until its functions extended to various other areas, including matters related to women and children.
Her Royal Highness noted that their achievements prove their ability and professionalism in carrying out the duties entrusted to them and qualify them to hold important positions in the RBPF and achieve the vision and mission of the police force in the matter of national security.
“However, despite these successes, there needs to be further upgrading of skills and knowledge through capacity building activities, such as courses and training in matters related to policing, to deal with various crimes that are nowadays increasingly more complex and sophisticated,” Her Royal Highness added.
Her Royal Highness also touched on the history of the Women’s Police, noting that it began with the historical recruitment of a 30-strong female police squad.
“Its establishment has given them the opportunity to join hands with the male police in maintaining security and peace in this country.”
Her Royal Highness said that the Women’s Police now has 774 members, comprising 52 officers and 722 rank-and-file members.
Her Royal Highness called on the currently serving police women to continue carrying out their duties with determination, trust and have a high team spirit to further improve the image of the police in the eyes of the community.
Her Royal Highness also expressed her appreciation to retired female police officers.
“Their services and contributions will always be remembered. They have become a source of inspiration for the current generation.”
The Golden Jubilee celebration was held at the Officers’ Mess Banquet Hall, Gadong Police headquarters.
Accompanying Her Royal Highness was Pengiran Lela Cheteria Sahibun Najabah Pengiran Anak Abdul Aziz.
Upon arrival, Her Royal Highness was welcomed by the commissioner of Royal Brunei Police Force Datuk Paduka Seri Awang Mohammad Irwan Hambali and senior officers.
Her Royal Highness received the royal salute, before moving to the Officers’ Mess banquet hall.
Her Royal Highness Princess also cut the cake commemorating 50th anniversary of the establishment of the Women’s Police and received a pesambah. - Borneo Bulletin/ANN