A prestigious military award has been conferred on the commander of the Royal Brunei Air Force (RBAirF), Brigadier-General Wardi Abdul Latip, by President Tony Tan Keng Yam.

The Pingat Jasa Gemilang (Tentera), or Meritorious Service Medal (Military), was presented to him by Defence Minister Ng Eng Hen on Wednesday afternoon, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) said in a press statement.

The air chief received the award for his significant contributions in fostering excellent defence ties between the air forces of both countries.

Under Brig-Gen Wardi's leadership, the long-standing friendship and professional cooperation between the RBAirF and the RSAF have grown from strength to strength, Mindef said.

"He promoted greater interoperability between the two air forces through his strong support for the Exercise Air Guard series, which will celebrate its 20th anniversary in October this year," Mindef said.

"The RBAirF and the RSAF also stepped up professional cooperation and exchanges, which have further enhanced the mutual understanding and camaraderie among the personnel of both air forces," it added.

On receiving the award, BG Wardi said: "I am greatly humbled and honoured to be receiving the award. I would like to offer my sincere gratitude to the Singapore Armed Forces as well as the Republic of Singapore Air Force for this honour."