Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF) Day
Sunday, May 31, 2026
The Anniversary of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF Day) in Brunei is held every 31 May to commemorate the formation of the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment on that date in 1961. In 2026, RBAF Day falls on Sunday 31 May. The holiday will be on Monday 31 May in 2027. Sultan Omar Ali, who first organised the unit, at first called it simply the “Brunei Malay Regiment.” The adjective “Royal” was added by the same sultan four years later. Brunei gained full independence from the U.K. in 1984, and the name was then changed to “Royal Brunei Armed Forces.” When first formed, Brunei’s army had only 60 soldiers, but today, it has some 9,000 members. The RBAF began with land forces only, but today, it includes naval and air forces as well. Only those of Malay descent are allowed to join the armed forces, and all members have joined voluntarily. The RBAF’s military equipment is mostly imported, the U.K., France, and the U.S. being its major suppliers. Some activities those in Brunei on RBAF Day may wish to take part in include:
History
Sultan Omar Ali, who first organised the unit, at first called it simply the “Brunei Malay Regiment. ” The adjective “Royal” was added by the same sultan four years later. Brunei gained full independence from the U. ” When first formed, Brunei’s army had only 60 soldiers, but today, it has some 9,000 members. The RBAF began with land forces only, but today, it includes naval and air forces as well
How It's Celebrated
The Anniversary of Royal Brunei Armed Forces (RBAF Day) in Brunei is held every 31 May to commemorate the formation of the Royal Brunei Malay Regiment on that date in 1961. The holiday will be on Monday 31 May in 2027. Some activities those in Brunei on RBAF Day may wish to take part in include: