The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy (TNI AL), Admiral (ADM) Yudo Margono, was conferred Singapore's prestigious military award, the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera) or Meritorious Service Medal (Military) [MSM(M)], by President Halimah Yacob. Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen presented the award to ADM Yudo at an investiture held at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) this afternoon.

ADM Yudo was conferred the award in recognition of his outstanding contributions in forging excellent ties and friendship between the TNI AL and the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN). Under ADM Yudo's leadership, both the TNI AL and the RSN continued to conduct bilateral exercises, such as the 26th edition of Exercise Eagle Indopura as well as four at-sea Passage Exercises, in spite of the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. These interactions contributed to the strong operational linkages and cooperation between both Navies. ADM Yudo also strengthened bilateral cooperation in maritime security by lending strong support to the deployment of Indonesian Liaison Officers to the Information Fusion Centre.

ADM Yudo is in Singapore from 14 to 16 July for his introductory visit. Prior to the investiture, ADM Yudo called on Dr Ng, Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant-General Melvyn Ong, and Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral Aaron Beng after inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF.