KUALA LUMPUR: The Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) and the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of China have officially launched the bilateral exercise Aman Youyi 2025 (EX AY25), marking the start of a nine-day joint training programme which will run until Oct 23.
The opening ceremony was jointly presided over by Joint Forces Headquarters, chief of staff Major General Datuk Mohamed Fauzi Kamis, and Southern Theatre Command, assistant chief of staff Major General Dai Bin, representing the MAF and PLA, respectively.
A statement by the Joint Forces Headquarters Public Affairs Cell on Wednesday (Oct 15) said the presence of both senior officers reflects the growing level of trust and cooperation between the two militaries, building upon a long-standing bilateral defence relationship.
The exercise, which focuses on humanitarian assistance and disaster relief and maritime security operations, is being conducted at several strategic locations across Malaysia, including the SMART Training Centre in Puchong, and in the waters of the Strait of Malacca.
The Strait of Malacca was selected as a primary location for the exercise, given its status as one of the world's most crucial maritime channels.
Conducting drills in this area reflects the nations’ shared commitment to ensuring the security and stability of this strategic sea lane.
More than 1,000 military personnel from both nations are participating in the land, naval and air exercise. The National Disaster Management Agency (Nadma) and Malaysia’s Special Search and Rescue Team (SMART) are also taking part, specifically in the humanitarian and disaster relief drills.
The statement added that EX AY25 also includes a series of Subject Matter Expert Exchanges designed to enhance the sharing of amphibious and air operations expertise between the two forces.
It further stated that the exercise aims to strengthen interoperability between the MAF and the PLA, reinforce the concept of integrated security, and deepen strategic cooperation in maintaining regional peace and stability.- Bernama
