Singapore confers its highest military award on General Mohammad bin Ab Rahman in recognition of his contributions to regional defence ties.
General (GEN) Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Mohammad bin Ab Rahman, the 22nd Chief of the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF), has been awarded Singapore’s highest military decoration, the Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang (Tentera) [Distinguished Service Order (Military)]. The award was presented by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) on the morning of 30 July 2025.
GEN Mohammad received the honour in recognition of his pivotal role in enhancing defence cooperation between Singapore and Malaysia during his tenure as Chief of the MAF from 6 September 2023 to 31 January 2025. Under his leadership, the Malaysian and Singaporean armed forces deepened collaboration through joint exercises such as MALAPURA, SEMANGAT BERSATU, and SAREX MALSING, as well as professional exchanges and shared training opportunities.
His efforts also extended to broader regional platforms, including the Malacca Straits Patrol, the Five Power Defence Arrangements, and the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus. Furthermore, he consistently championed multilateral security initiatives like the Information Fusion Centre and the Counter Terrorism Information Facility, helping bolster stability and security in the region.
The investiture was attended by Minister for Defence Mr Chan Chun Sing, Permanent Secretary (Defence) Mr Chan Heng Kee, Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng, and senior military officials from both nations. Before the ceremony, GEN Mohammad reviewed a Guard of Honour at MINDEF.
GEN Mohammad is visiting Singapore from 30 July to 3 August. Earlier in the day, he met with Minister Chan, where both parties reaffirmed the strong defence partnership and expressed a shared commitment to further deepen bilateral relations.
