Singapore and Brunei Successfully Conclude 27th Edition of Exercise Maju Bersama

Chief of Army Major-General (MG) David Neo and Commander of the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) Brigadier-General (BG) Haji Mohammad Shanonnizam bin Sulaiman co-officiating the opening ceremony of Exercise Maju Bersama (XMB) at Pasir Laba Camp.

The Singapore Army and the Royal Brunei Land Force (RBLF) successfully conducted the 27th edition of Exercise Maju Bersama from 5 to 11 December 2024. About 250 personnel from the Headquarters 8th Singapore Armoured Brigade, 41st Battalion, Singapore Armoured Regiment, and the 3rd Battalion of the RBLF took part in the bilateral exercise. This year’s exercise comprised professional exchanges, such as cross-sharing of weapon systems and company-level urban operations drills, as well as live-firing training at the Multi-Mission Range Complex and culminated in a joint assault by both Armies on an urban objective at the Murai Urban Training Facility.

At the opening ceremony, Chief of Army, Major-General (MG) David Neo said, "This year marks the 27th edition of the exercise, which is testament to the steadfast commitment from both our nations to regional peace and security, and the deepening of our special relationship." MG Neo added, "A key cornerstone of our bilateral relationship is Exercise Maju Bersama, which provides valuable learning opportunities for our units to strengthen professional linkages, exchange best practices and forge stronger interoperability. Most importantly, these exercises help to build strong friendships and mutual trust between our soldiers. These friendships forged out of a common experience and tough training will serve as a strong foundation for our wider bilateral relationship, and often go on to last a lifetime."

Exercise Maju Bersama underscores the close and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Brunei and provides a valuable platform for both Armies to foster mutual understanding and enhance interoperability through professional interactions. Apart from Exercise Maju Bersama, the Singapore Army and the RBLF also interact regularly through high-level visits, professional exchanges and courses, and other bilateral and multilateral exercises.

A soldier from the Singapore Army sharing on the SAR-21 during the professional weapons exchange programme.

A RBLF soldier operating the SAR-21 during a live firing session at the Multi-Mission Range Complex.

Soldiers from the Singapore Army and the RBLF participating in joint urban operations at the Murai Urban Training Facility.

Soldiers from the Singapore Army and the RBLF participating in joint urban operations.

Soldiers from the Singapore Army and the RBLF participating in a dragon boat regatta.