The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army, General (GEN) Agustadi Sasongko Purnomo, was conferred Singapore's prestigious military award, the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean at an investiture held at the Ministry of Defence this morning.

The Meritorious Service Medal (Military) was awarded to GEN Agustadi in recognition of his outstanding efforts and contributions in enhancing the excellent ties between the armies of Singapore and Indonesia. Under GEN Agustadi's leadership, both armies have continued their close cooperation in a wide spectrum of activities, including bilateral exercises such as Chandrapura and Safkar Indopura, bilateral visits and personnel exchange programmes at various levels. Such interactions have enhanced professionalism and strengthened mutual understanding among the officers and men of both armies.

Before the investiture, GEN Agustadi called on Mr Teo, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Desmond Kuek and Chief of Army Major-General Neo Kian Hong. GEN Agustadi, who is in Singapore from 5 to 7 May, will visit Headquarters Commando tomorrow.