Strengthening Bonds for Regional Security: A Grateful Farewell and Continued Partnership with New Zealand Police

The ASEANAPOL Secretariat had the distinct pleasure of receiving Mr. Mike Foster, the outgoing New Zealand Police (NZP) Attaché based in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, during his courtesy visit to the Secretariat on 7 April 2025. He was accompanied by Superintendent Karyn Maltus, NZP Senior Police Liaison Officer and ASEANAPOL Contact Person based in Bangkok, Thailand, and Detective Inspector Paul Laurence Borell of NZP based in Jakarta, Indonesia.

The delegation was warmly welcomed by the Executive Director of the ASEANAPOL Secretariat, Police Colonel David Martinez Vinluan, together with Senior Superintendent Huntal Tambunan, Superintendent Siva, and Deputy Superintendent of Police Hamid.

The visit provided an excellent opportunity to reaffirm the longstanding and fruitful relationship between the New Zealand Police and ASEANAPOL. As a valued Dialogue Partner since 2008, the New Zealand Police has consistently demonstrated its commitment to strengthening regional law enforcement cooperation through capacity building, information sharing, and operational collaboration.

During the meeting, the Executive Director extended appreciation to Mr. Foster for his dedicated service and meaningful contributions in fostering strong ties between NZP and ASEANAPOL throughout his posting. He also acknowledged the continued active engagement of Superintendent Maltus and Detective Inspector Borell in supporting ASEANAPOL’s initiatives and collaborative programs.

Both parties expressed a shared interest in sustaining momentum on key areas of cooperation, including combatting transnational crime, advancing law enforcement training and education, and promoting mutual support among ASEANAPOL Member Countries and Dialogue Partners.

The ASEANAPOL Secretariat conveyed its best wishes to Mr. Foster in his future endeavors and expressed optimism for the continuing strategic partnership with the New Zealand Police in the years ahead.