Malaysian, Australian armed forces exchange expertise in security challenges

SIBU: The Eastern Field Command of the Army, Lieutenant General Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi, was on-site for the implementation of Exercise HARINGAROO Series 74/2024 here, as part of an initiative to enhance bilateral defence synergy between Malaysia and Australia.

Accompanied by the Ninth Infantry Brigade Commander Brig-Gen Ahmad Norzaini Badrun, Mohd Sofi emphasised the commitment on the readiness, deployment, and mobility of both armed forces.

“Exercise Haringaroo serves as a strategic platform to elevate interoperability and strengthen bilateral relations.

“It is a catalyst that enables the exchange of expertise and enhances professionalism in facing global security challenges, particularly in Sarawak and Sabah,” he said in a statement today (Oct 26).

The visit began with a briefing by the 3rd Battalion of the Royal Ranger Regiment (3 RRD), commanding officer Lt-Col Majani Japon, detailing the mechanisms of the field deployment exercise conducted from Oct 22 to 27, in the Stapang – Nanga Sekuau area.

Mohd Sofi also interacted with members of the 3 RRD and the Australian Army’s Rifle Company Butterworth (RCB – ADF) to assess the implementation of procedures, configurations, and achievement of exercise objectives.

A visit to the Field Hospital operated by the 1st Medical Battalion at the Ninth Infantry Brigade Control Headquarters was also conducted to underline the importance of medical support in the field.

This exercise demonstrates the readiness of the Malaysian Armed Forces, particularly the Malaysian Army, in large-scale operational deployments, in line with the regional geostrategic threat spectrum.

It also strengthens integrated training in reinforcing the preparedness and sovereignty of the Sarawak and Sabah regions.