In a significant stride towards fostering stronger ties between the armed forces of Malaysia and Singapore, the Singapore Army recently hosted Warrant Officer I (WO1) Shahamrie Bin Abdullah, the Regimental Sergeant Major (RSM) of Tentera Darat Malaysia (TDM). The occasion marked the 4th installment of the Army Regimental Sergeant Major Exchange Programme (AREP), held from 10 to 12 January.

Since its initiation in 2018, AREP has become an annual platform for Sergeant Majors from both the Singapore and Malaysian Armies to exchange insights and knowledge, contributing to the deepening of bilateral relations between the two armed forces.

During the visit, WO1 Shahamrie engaged in various activities that showcased the collaboration and exchange of expertise. Noteworthy moments included the signing of the guestbook at the Specialist and Warrant Officer Institute (SWI), witnessed by Sergeant Major of the Army (SMA), Chief Warrant Officer (CWO) Sanjee Singh, and Chief Master Trainer, SWI, Senior Warrant Officer (SWO) Albert Tan.

The program also involved a comprehensive briefing on the SWI and Urban Operations training, where WO1 Shahamrie and his delegates had the opportunity to delve into Singapore’s military practices. Furthermore, they explored the SMART magazine, a technology replacing blanks with stimulated effects, demonstrating the integration of innovative tools in military operations.

Another focal point of the exchange was the introduction to the Kranji Regional Health Hub (KRHH). WO1 Shahamrie and his delegates received insights into the facility and were briefed on the Singapore Armed Forces’ (SAF) Medicine Dispensary System.

Additionally, WO1 Shahamrie personally participated in an audiometry test, underlining the practical aspects of collaboration in military healthcare.

The 4th AREP not only facilitated the exchange of knowledge but also emphasized the commitment of both nations to strengthening military cooperation. Such initiatives contribute significantly to regional stability and underscore the importance of fostering relationships between neighboring armed forces.

Photos: The Singapore Army