OPENING REMARKS

YANG BERHORMAT PENGIRAN DATO SERI SETIA SHAMHARY PENGIRAN DATO PADUKA HAJI MUSTAPHA

MINISTER OF TRANSPORT AND INFOCOMMUNICATIONS

ASSOCIATION OF ASIA PACIFIC AIRLINES (AAPA)

68TH ASSEMBLY OF PRESIDENTS,

BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

DATE:

WEDNESDAY, 13 NOVEMBER 2024

VENUE:

THE EMPIRE HOTEL, BRUNEI DARUSSALAM

Bismillahir Rahmanir Rahim

Assalamu’alaikum warahmatullahi wabarakatuh, and a very good morning.

Yang Mulia Captain Sabirin Haji Abd Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Brunei Airlines;

Mr. Subhas Menon, Director General, Association of Asia Pacific Airlines;

Permanent Secretary, Deputy Permanent Secretaries;

Chief Executives of Member Airlines and Senior Members of the Aviation Industry Stakeholders;

Distinguished Guest, Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

1. It is indeed an honour and privilege to join everyone here this morning to the opening of the 68th Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA). I wish to also welcome all our international guests to Brunei Darussalam.

2. I do hope we are able to offer a conducive setting for the articulation of AAPA members’ views on matters and issues of common interest, to foster close cooperation, and to bring about an atmosphere conducive to the stimulation of the travel, trade and tourism industry.

3. This year’s assembly is particularly significant as it is also in the year when we will mark the 80th anniversary of the Chicago Convention—the Convention on International Civil Aviation, a milestone that laid the foundation for global civil aviation and lead to the creation of the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Since its inception, the convention has united nations in fostering safe, efficient, and fair air transport, providing the framework that continues to guide us.

4. From its early days, air transport has been a vital connector, bridging people and places worldwide, even in the most remote communities. This role was underscored during the pandemic, when aviation played a crucial role in transporting essential goods, including vaccines, and bringing people safely home amidst unprecedented challenges. 

5. As such, the aviation industry is a dynamic, ever-evolving sphere, constantly adapting to meet the demands of an increasingly global and interconnected world. The industry is gearing up for significant transformations that will redefine how we travel, conduct business, and connect with one another. These shifts are powered by advancements in technology, changing geopolitical landscapes, and a renewed emphasis on sustainability.

6. Therefore, the theme, “Jetting Into 2050: Future Proofing Asian Aviation,” is quite appropriate. The last couple of years, post-COVID, has been a period of reconsolidation. 2024 has seen strong international air travel and cargo growth - where the total global air passenger traffic has already matched and surpassed the 2019 pre-COVID numbers.

7. With IATA forecasting world passengers to increase by 3.8% per year on average, it is anticipated that Asia Pacific would record the fastest rise in passenger numbers and to contribute to more than half of the net increase in global passenger numbers within the next 20 years.

8. Hence, the theme which focuses on the future - invites us to explore the challenges and opportunities that lies ahead as we work together to shape a resilient, sustainable future for aviation across the Asia-Pacific region including the adoption of technologies to make air travel more seamless and hassle-free. In short, how do we unleash the transformative power of technology, sustainability, and passenger-centric innovation.

9. Notwithstanding, we also need to consider the means to overcome the current supply chain issues affecting the timely delivery of aircraft, engines, components, and parts that are essential for growth and safe travel.

Distinguished Guest, Ladies and Gentlemen,

10. On the matter of sustainability, the aviation industry has set ambitious goals, including the commitment to net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines’ recent aspiration to achieve 5% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) utilization by 2030. These are not just aspirations but obligations that require a united approach and innovation at all levels.

11. As we embark on this journey, it is crucial to recognize that airlines maybe at varying stages of their decarbonization journey. It has also been acknowledged that technological innovation and the global introduction and availability of sustainable aviation fuel will be integral to achieve the overall ambition.

12. Hence, in striving for a decarbonized aviation sector, we must be pragmatic and must intensify collaboration in the sharing of knowledge, technology, and resources to foster our cooperative spirit and offer clarity to the industry.

​13. In this regard, I’am pleased to share that Brunei Darussalam, through the Department of Civil Aviation, Ministry of Transport and Infocommunications has produced the Brunei Darussalam Action Plan on Reduction of Aviation Emissions which outlines the strategies and and initiatives to reduce CO2 from international flights, including supplemental benefits from airport improvements. 

14. The future looking initiatives, actions and collaboration opportunities that wil contribute towards improving fuel efficiency and CO2 emissions reductions falls under these four main buckets, namely:

15. In this regard, as well as the other pertinent matters and headwinds that confront the aviaition industry, I beleive this assembly offers an invaluable opportunity to exchange insights, deliberate on effective strategies, and forge the partnerships that will enable us to sustainably meet the aspirations and challenges posed by a rapidly changing world. I trust that the dialogues held here will shape practical solutions to future-proof aviation in Asia-Pacific region.

16. As we look toward 2050 and beyond, I encourage all to use this time to build stronger partnerships, exchange valuable insights, and establish pathways for our industry to navigate future opportunities and challenges.

17. Whilst doing so, lets also not forget to enjoy the sights and sounds Brunei Darussalam by experiencing first hand what we can offer as a travel destination. Our country is deeply honored to host you, and I trust that you will experience its unique charm during your stay and entice you to visit again.

18. Before concluding please allow me to also extend my appreciation and congratulation to Captain Sabirin Haji Abd Hamid, Chief Executive Officer of Royal Brunei Airlines; for assuming the Chairmanship of the 68th Assembly of Presidents of the Association of Asia Pacific Airlines (AAPA) and for graciously hosting the event.

19. I wish you all success and fruitful deliberations. Thank you.

Wabillahi Taufik Walhidayah, Wassalamu Alaikum Warrahmatullahi Wabarakatuh.