The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Army, General (GEN) George Toisutta, 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.

GEN Toisutta was conferred the award in recognition of his outstanding efforts in fostering the excellent ties between the armies of Indonesia and Singapore. Under his leadership, the bilateral cooperation between the two armies has grown from strength to strength. GEN Toisutta was also instrumental in expanding the scope of bilateral exercises and professional exchanges. These interactions have enhanced the interoperability and mutual understanding as well as strengthened the rapport and camaraderie among the officers and men of both armies.

GEN Toisutta, who is in Singapore from 5 to 6 May 2011, called on Mr Teo, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Neo Kian Hong and Chief of Army Brigadier-General Ravinder Singh before the investiture.