Kota Kinabalu: Major General Datuk Noorrul Azril Ariffin has assumed command of the 5th Division, succeeding Major General Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman.
The formal handover ceremony was held at the 6th Regiment Royal Artillery’s Parade Ground in Lok Kawi Camp on Wednesday.
It commenced at 8.05am with an impressive parade comprising a contingent of 15 officers and 456 other ranks, accompanied by a joint band from the 3rd and 22nd Battalions of the Royal Malay Regiment.
At 9.20am, Noorrul arrived and received the Commander’s Salute. He then signed the official handover documents and was presented with the staff of authority, symbolising his new role.
Lieutenant General Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi, the Eastern Field Commander, oversaw the proceedings.
Following the ceremony, both incoming and outgoing commanders underwent interviews at the 5th Division Headquarters.
The event concluded with a reception honouring the departing commander, Major General Datuk Malek Razak Sulaiman, at Kinabalu Hall.
Several high-ranking military officials attended the ceremony, including commanders from several divisions and brigades, emphasising the significance of this leadership transition in the Malaysian Armed Forces.
