KOTA KINABALU: The Malaysian army chief said the annual joint army exercise, codenamed Keris Strike Exercise Series 29/2024, with the US Army and newcomer Australia, was a success.

The exercise was conducted with the United States Army Pacific Command (USARPAC) and the Australian Army. It facilitated the sharing of expertise, experience, and technologies between the three nations.

"Our exposure includes the use of drones to enhance surveillance as well defence readiness in the Borneo island that will ensure the safety and stability of the region," Comm Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan said during the closing ceremony of the exercise at Sikuati Beach in Kudat on Thursday (July 11).

"With the rapid pace of technology and the constantly changing operational environment, it is essential to continue conducting exercises like this in the future. These exercises serve as a platform for our armed forces and army personnel to remain competitive, acquire expertise, and master various latest technologies," Comm Gen Muhammad Hafizuddeain said.

The exercise began on June 28 around Kota Belud and concluded in Kudat with the battle group's final attack phase.

"The uniqueness of this year's Keris Strike exercise is the involvement of field commanders and its location in Borneo, particularly in Sabah.

"The selection of locations in Sabah provides a new atmosphere for participants to understand geo-strategic issues in the South China Sea with various security threats," he said.

He also said that the exercise successfully achieved its desired objectives, and the soldiers displayed professionalism, meeting the required mental and physical standards amid unpredictable weather conditions.

"The exercise also aims to create confidence and further strengthen the credibility of the Malaysian Armed Forces, specifically the army, in ensuring the sovereignty of Sabah and Sarawak,” he said.

3,141 personnel, including 283 officers, were involved in the exercise, including 2,135 Malaysian soldiers, 617 from USARPAC, and 136 from the Australian Army.

He said the exercise involved various activities, including cross-training involving airborne expertise, multi-domain operations, offensive operations, staff exercises, and live-fire artillery exercises.

The field training exercise involved a march phase by a battle group from Kota Belud's Cap Paradise to Sikuati, covering 114 km.

The culmination of the exercise included assault phases, air assault, and airborne operations on objectives in Sikuati.

Also present at the closing ceremony were Deputy Commander of the United States Pacific Command (USARPAC) Lieutenant General James B Jarrard and Commander 1 Division Australia, Major General Ash Collingburn.

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2024/07/12/malaysia-us-and-australian-armies-successfully-conducted-keris-strike-in-northern-sabah