MALAYSIAN ARMY CHIEF IN SINGAPORE FOR INTRODUCTORY VISIT

By Nur Ashikin Abdul Aziz

SINGAPORE, July 23 (Bernama) -- Malaysia’s Army Chief General Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan called on Singapore Senior Minister of State for Defence Zaqy Mohamad at the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) on Tuesday, as part of his introductory visit to the Republic.

During the meeting, Muhammad Hafizuddeain and Zaqy reaffirmed the importance of maintaining strong ties between the armies of Singapore and Malaysia and discussed ongoing efforts to enhance cooperation between the two sides. 

“Muhammad Hafizuddeain's visit underscores the warm and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between Singapore and Malaysia,” Mindef said in a statement on Tuesday.

Throughout his three-day visit to Singapore starting July 22, the Malaysian army chief also met with Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng and Chief of Army Major-General David Neo, following an inspection of the Guard of Honour at Mindef.

Muhammad Hafizuddeain observed demonstrations of Close-Quarter Combat (CQB) and Parachute Drills at the Airborne-Trooper Training Facility while at the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Commandos camp at Pasir Ris. He also experienced a ride on the Light Strike Vehicle Mark II, and took part in a shoot with the HK416 Assault Rifle using the Man Marking Rounds.

Additionally, he exchanged parachutist wings with Neo during the visit.

The Singapore Army and the Malaysian Army cooperate and interact regularly through exercises such as the annual bilateral Exercise Semangat Bersatu (XSB), high-level visits, professional exchanges, and cross-attendance of professional courses.

Mindef highlighted that these regular interactions have enhanced mutual understanding and professional ties between the personnel of both armies.

-- BERNAMA