BRIDEX forum examines full spectrum of emerging threats

His Majesty opens four-day defence and security exhibition today

PARTICIPANTS at the BRIDEX 2009 Conference yesterday were given an opportunity to scrutinise and examine the full spectrum of emerging threats and how to manage and handle so-called non-traditional threats from a global perspective.

This was presented to them via a series of keynote addresses and panel discussions which focused on four key themes of relevance to defence forces and national security agencies in Southeast Asia's fast-changing defence and security environment.

The four key themes are Emerging and Future Security Threats in Southeast Asia; C4ISR and the Evolution of Network Centric Capabilities; Homeland Security and Border Protection; and Application of C4I to Peacekeeping, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Operations.

Deemed as the premier defence and security event in Southeast Asia, BRIDEX 2009, which officially begins today, commenced with a one-day International Conference yesterday.

Present to officiate the event was Deputy Minister of Defence Pehin Datu Singamanteri Colonel (Rtd) Dato Seri Paduka Hj Mohammad Yasmin Hj Umar, who also presented the official opening address which followed by a keynote address by the Former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, Pakistan, General (Rtd) Ehsan Ul Haq.

The BRIDEX Conference, according to official organisers, is a collaboration of efforts between the Ministry of Defence and Jane's Information Group to bring in opportunities in the form of military contracts as well as distribution and exchange of information.

With an attendance of approximately 380 participants, the BRIDEX Conference has brought together high-level international government and defence and security officials as well as leading defence and security industry experts.

It also provides an ideal platform to network, exchange ideas, information and knowledge, and discuss technology advancements and industry developments.

The Conference, aimed at providing participants with a better understanding of defence and security priorities and challenges facing political and military leaders in Southeast Asia, is also a platform for appreciation of how to translate that understanding into actionable insights that will shape plans in 2009 and beyond.

Prominent invited speakers yesterday enlightened the conference over three sessions, where the first session focused on C4ISTAR and the Evolution of Network Centric Capabilities, followed by the second session after lunch which touched on homeland security and border protection — trends, challenges and technologies.

The third and final session provided participants with the presentation of C4I theme in Peacekeeping Missions, Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Operations.

Throughout the sessions, participants were also given the opportunity to raise questions based on the presentations.

The Brunei Times