Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto received Singapore’s highest military honour for fostering strong bilateral defence ties
IN a ceremony held at the Istana on 21st November 2023, Indonesian Defence Minister Prabowo Subianto was bestowed with Singapore’s highest military award, the Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang (Tentera) [Distinguished Service Order (Military)], by Singapore President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. The investiture was preceded by Mr. Prabowo inspecting a Guard of Honour at the Istana.
Mr. Prabowo earned this prestigious recognition for his substantial contributions to fortifying the enduring and close bilateral defence relations between Indonesia and Singapore. Under his leadership, the Defence Cooperation Agreement, a significant milestone in bilateral defence relations, was ratified. His efforts also paved the way for closer collaboration between the defence establishments of both countries, marked by the conduct of key bilateral and multilateral exercises such as Exercise Safkar Indopura and Exercise Super Garuda Shield, in addition to facilitating high-level visits. The two nations also collaborated on multilateral platforms, including the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus.
The investiture ceremony witnessed the presence of Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen, Senior Minister of State for Defence Mr Zaqy Mohamad, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral (VADM) Aaron Beng, along with other senior government officials and military officers from both Singapore and Indonesia.
During his visit to Singapore from 21st to 22nd November 2023, Mr. Prabowo paid a courtesy call on Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong, following the investiture. Minister for Defence Dr Ng hosted Mr. Prabowo to lunch, during which they engaged in discussions on regional security developments and explored avenues to further enhance bilateral defence ties.
Source – MINDEF
