KUALA LUMPUR: A series of military activities to enhance interoperability through humanitarian and disaster relief training along with other training workshops are being held here under Australia’s Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2022 (IPE22).
The key regional engagement activity will be held from Nov 7 to 9, reported Bernama.
“IPE22 represents one of a multitude of longstanding bilateral and multilateral defence engagement activities that Australia and Malaysia regularly undertake. This includes over 50 years of shared contribution to the Five Power Defence Arrangements,” said Australia’s High Commissioner to Malaysia Dr Justin Lee.
He said the visit of HMAS Adelaide and HMAS Anzac, as the centrepieces of Indo-Pacific Endeavour 22, was also a powerful symbol of Australia’s deep commitment to the defence pillar of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership.
“These ships, and the capabilities, also demonstrate Australia’s support for an open, inclusive and prosperous Indo-Pacific, based on international law and with Asean at its core, and the priority we give to further strengthening partnerships with defence forces across South-East Asia,” he said in a statement.
The highlight of this year’s activity will be a Medical Casualty training exercise on board HMAS Adelaide where Australian Defence Force and Malaysian Armed Forces personnel will work together in simulated medical emergency.
Last week, nine members from the Malaysian Armed Forces embarked on HMAS Adelaide to integrate with the ship’s company and share expertise, including military medicine and combat casualty care, according to the statement.
Other activities include a Defence Industry showcase, a call by the Royal Australian Navy Imam to the Malaysian Armed Forces Religious Corps, a Women, Peace and Security Roundtable with the Australian Ambassador for Women and Girls Christine Clarke CSC, engagement with the Australian Border Force and Australian Federal Police on the important issue of people smuggling.
A discussion on topical maritime security issues with various Malaysian think tanks and policy specialists will also be held.
“Malaysia is one of Australia’s most important defence partners, and Indo-Pacific Endeavour is one way we can continue to strengthen this relationship,” said IPE22 commander Commodore Mal Wise.
