Admiral Dr. Muhammad Ali was conferred the Meritorious Service Medal (Military) for his contributions to strengthening Indonesia-Singapore naval ties.
Chief of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral (ADM) Dr. Muhammad Ali, was awarded Singapore’s Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera), or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) [MSM(M)], by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam. Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen presented the award at an investiture ceremony at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) on the morning of March 13, 2025.
ADM Dr. Ali received the award in recognition of his efforts to enhance the partnership between the Indonesian Navy and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). Under his leadership, both navies implemented the Defence Cooperation Agreement, conducting Joint Training in the Natuna Sea. His support for the Coordinated Patrol Indonesia-Singapore (CORPAT) further strengthened maritime security cooperation between the two nations.
In addition to these joint initiatives, the two navies have engaged in regular high-level visits, professional exchanges, and cross-attendance of courses. They have also conducted bilateral exercises, including Exercise Eagle Indopura and Exercise Joint Minex Pandu, which have improved interoperability and mutual understanding. These activities have played a crucial role in fostering strong people-to-people ties and deepening defence collaboration between Indonesia and Singapore.
ADM Dr. Ali is in Singapore from March 12 to 14, 2025, for an official visit. Before the award ceremony, he inspected a Guard of Honour and met with Dr. Ng and Singapore’s Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Sean Wat. His visit underscores the longstanding and growing defence partnership between Indonesia and Singapore, particularly in maritime security and naval cooperation.
Source – MINDEF
