TAWAU: The beginning of a new era of cooperation between the Malaysian Army (TDM) and the United Kingdom Army (British Army) stems from the strategic partnership policy agreed upon by the Prime Ministers of both nations last January at 10 Downing Street, UK, as part of a shared commitment to ensuring regional security.
British Deputy High Commissioner David Wallace believes that this growing friendship is a positive signal of a modern 21st-century Malaysia–UK relationship, one built upon shared history and now being strengthened to face the future.
“I believe this collaborative diplomacy is also rooted in the long-standing history shared by both countries, to be developed into something truly solid for the future,” he said.
Wallace was interviewed by Daily Express after attending the Closing Ceremony of Exercise Tiger Gold (ETG), a joint training exercise between TDM and the British Army, held at the Sungai Tajong Forest Reserve General Area here on Thursday.
The closing ceremony was officiated by 5th Division Commander Major General Datuk Noorrul Azril Ariffin and was also attended by 13th Brigade Commander Brigadier General Datuk Jagjit Singh Indar Singh.
Commenting further, Wallace expressed hope that the long-established cooperation between the two countries will continue for mutual benefit, including in the areas of defence and regional security.
“This ETG is the first joint training conducted since 2018, and it is not merely about procedural standardisation but also serves as a platform for the exchange of counter-insurgency skills at the grassroots level.
“Through this exercise, military personnel from both nations can share experiences across diverse environments and equipment, making it a mutually beneficial partnership,” he said.
He added that although the joint exercise concluded successfully, its core essence remains centred on ensuring the stability of the Pacific region through enduring partnerships.
According to him, London’s commitment to a free and open Pacific is increasingly evident, demonstrated through its active participation in the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA), including its involvement in the ETG with TDM.
“This is also reflected in the presence of naval assets such as the aircraft carrier HMS Prince of Wales last September, further strengthening joint efforts with strategic partners to maintain security in regional waters,” he said.
ETG involved 43 officers and 345 personnel from the Malaysian Army’s 25th Battalion of the Royal Malay Regiment (RAMD), representing the 13th Malaysian Infantry Brigade, while the British Army contingent comprised two officers and 39 personnel from the 2nd Battalion, The Royal Gurkha Rifles.
