1.          Former Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Air Force, Air Chief Marshal Herman Prayitno, was conferred the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military), by Minister for Defence Teo Chee Hean in an investiture ceremony at the Ministry of Defence this morning. ACM Prayitno was awarded the medal in recognition of his outstanding contributions to enhancing the excellent ties between the Indonesian Air Force and the Republic of Singapore Air Force during his tenure.

2.          Under ACM Prayitno’s leadership and guidance, the longstanding and close cooperation between the Indonesian Air Force and the Republic of Singapore Air Force has grown from strength to strength. Bilateral exercises between the two Air Forces, such as Exercise Elang Indopura and Exercise Camar Indopura, have both expanded in scope and complexity. ACM Prayitno has also played an instrumental role in initiating new professional exchanges and interaction programmes between the two Air Forces, such as the Annual Staff Meetings and the Safety Exchange Programme. These initiatives have enhanced the interoperability, mutual understanding and camaraderie between the officers and men of the two Air Forces.

3.         As part of his visit, ACM Prayitno called on Minister Teo, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Desmond Kuek, and Chief of Air Force Major-General Ng Chee Khern prior to the investiture ceremony.

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