13th May 2024 -The Chief Executive of the Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MiDAS), Maj Gen Dato' Hj Ya'cob bin Hj Samiran has received a courtesy visit from Commodore Richard N Gonzaga PN, Deputy Commander of Armed Forces Philippines Education, Training and Doctrine Command as Head of Delegation (HoD) from Command and General Staff College (CGSC) of Philippines Class 74 consisting of 48 officers, staff and course participants.
This courtesy visit was also joined by Chief Director of Defence Training Division, Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarter (MAF HQ), Brig Gen Hajah Fadzillah binti Haji Abdullah RMAF. Next the HoD signed the visit book, a tradition that signifies a mutual commitment to cooperation and friendship.
After the courtesy call session, FAdm Dr Tay Yap Leong, Senior Director 2, Comprehensive Security Research Centre of MiDAS accompanied the HoD of the delegation for a briefing session with other delegations at the Auditorium of Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) Library.
Insightful briefings were formed as the crucial part of the programme was held at the auditorium. The first briefing was delivered by Lt Col Ismahizan bin Ishak who represented the Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarter-Defence Planning Division (MAF HQ-DPD), shared valuable insights into the organisational, roles and tasks of the MAF and the three services. His expertise shed light on the organization's responsibilities and operational readiness.
The second briefing was given by Mr. Kamarul Hafidzan bin Kamaruddin, Principal Assistant Secretary from the Policy and Strategic Planning Division, Ministry of Defence (MINDEF). He provided an overview of Malaysia's Defence White Paper (DWP). His comprehensive presentation highlighted key strategic priorities. He also informed that MINDEF is currently carrying out a half-term study to deal with the ever-changing current situation in the world's regions.
The third briefing was delivered by Lt Col Mazlizan bin Shaikh Osman RMAF, Regional Affairs Assistant Director at MiDAS. He eloquently introduced the institute's direction statements, jobs and responsibilities as well as ongoing initiatives and activities. His engaging presentation emphasized the importance of regional security cooperation.
All in all, the programme also included a dynamic question and answer session, allowing the visiting delegation to engage directly with experts from all the services. Thought-provoking questions were met with thoughtful responses, enriching the exchange. After the question and answer session, the HoD presented a memento to FAdm Dr Tay Yap Leong on behalf of the MAF in appreciation for the visit. The tour ends with a photo session to commemorate this important event.
Hopefully this visit will further mobilize the bond of goodwill that has been forged and contribute to peace, stability and prosperity in the region. Overall, this delegation's visit was carefully coordinated by Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarters – Defence Operations and Training Division (MAF HQ-DOTD).