SINGAPORE: The Chief of Staff of the Indonesian Navy, Admiral Sumardjono, has been conferred Singapore's prestigious Meritorious Service Medal (Military).

Defence Minister Teo Chee Hean presented the award, also called the Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera), at an investiture on Tuesday morning.

The Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) said Admiral Sumardjono was given the medal in recognition of his role in strengthening ties and friendship between the two countries' navies.

It added that under his leadership, the relationship between the Singapore and Indonesian navies has grown in scope and depth, with regular exchanges and bilateral exercises.

Before receiving his award, Admiral Sumardjono called on Mr Teo and Chief of Navy, Rear Admiral Chew Men Leong. - CNA/ir