The courtesy calls by the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces to Singapore’s top leadership on 7 January 2026 underscored the strengthening of bilateral defence cooperation, highlighted by the conferment of Singapore’s Distinguished Service Order (Military) in recognition of strategic partnership
The Government of Singapore received the Commander of the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI), General Agus Subiyanto, for a series of courtesy calls on 7 January 2026, reaffirming the enduring defence partnership between Indonesia and Singapore. The engagements, held in Singapore, formed part of continued efforts to deepen bilateral cooperation in the defence and security sectors amid evolving regional dynamics.
General Agus Subiyanto met with Prime Minister Lawrence Wong, where he expressed appreciation for the warm hospitality extended by the Singapore Government. During the visit, he was conferred the Distinguished Service Order (Military), known in Malay as Darjah Utama Bakti Cemerlang (Tentera), reflecting the close ties of friendship and cooperation between the two nations.
In a separate meeting with Defence Minister Chang Chun Sing, both sides reaffirmed the importance of the Indonesia–Singapore strategic partnership, particularly in the context of increasingly complex regional and global security challenges. Discussions focused on sustaining momentum in defence collaboration and enhancing mutual trust.
General Agus also met with Chief of the Singapore Armed Forces, Aaron Beng, where both leaders highlighted the significant contribution of TNI–SAF cooperation in advancing the professionalism and operational readiness of their respective armed forces.
On the same day, the award ceremony was officiated by President Tharman Shanmugaratnam at Singapore’s Ministry of Defence. The conferment of the Distinguished Service Order (Military) signified Singapore’s high appreciation for General Agus Subiyanto’s role in strengthening strategic defence relations and promoting regional stability.
The visit reflected the continued commitment of Indonesia and Singapore to uphold a robust and forward-looking defence partnership, grounded in mutual respect and a shared responsibility for maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
Source: Indonesia Embassy in Singapore
