Indonesian Air Force Chief of Staff Receives Prestigious Military Award

Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Fadjar Prasetyo calling on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) this morning.

The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force (TNI AU) Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Fadjar Prasetyo was conferred Singapore's prestigious military award, the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) [MSM(M)], by President Halimah Yacob. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen presented the award to ACM Fadjar at an investiture held at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) this morning.

ACM Fadjar was conferred the award for his significant contributions in strengthening the defence ties between the TNI AU and the Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF). Under ACM Fadjar's leadership, both Air Forces commemorated 40 years of defence relations in 2021 with a joint flypast during Exercise Elang Indopura, and signed a Joint Declaration on Close Friendship and Cooperation, reaffirming the mutual commitment to strengthen cooperation and deepen relations between the two Air Forces. In spite of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, ACM Fadjar demonstrated steadfast commitment towards enhancing people-to-people ties and professional interactions between the Air Forces. These interactions include joint exercises, leadership and professional exchanges, and cross-attendance of courses which have been invaluable in enhancing interoperability, friendship and mutual understanding between the RSAF and TNI AU.

On receiving the award, ACM Fadjar said, "It is an honour for me to receive this remarkably prestigious award, the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera), from our best friend, the Republic of Singapore. Personally, I am incredibly privileged to be here today, and I believe this award is not just a personal recognition, but a testament to the milestones achieved in our defence cooperation and an affirmation of our commitment to maintain the peace and security in the region. We hope that the cordial friendship of the RSAF and the TNI AU shall always thrive and succeed in the future."

ACM Fadjar is in Singapore from 10 to 14 October 2022. As part of his visit, ACM Fadjar called on Dr Ng, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong and Chief of Air Force Major-General Kelvin Khong after inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF.

ACM Fadjar inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF.