SINGAPORE - The commissioner of the Singapore Police Force received the highest Malaysian award for police officers from the Malaysian King on Monday.

The Panglima Gagah Pasukan Polis, which means Order of Police Heroism - Knight Grand Commander in Malay, is the highest police award that the Royal Malaysia Police can confer on an individual for outstanding contributions and cooperation with the organisation.

It was conferred on Mr Ng Joo Hee at the Istana Negara in Kuala Lumpur by His Majesty, Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu'adzam Shah.

The award recognises his work in fostering stronger relations between the Singapore Police Force and the Royal Malaysia Police in the areas of investigations, maritime security operations, information sharing and training exchanges.

"In recognition of his continued commitment in enhancing cooperation and fostering close ties between the two police forces in the fight against crime, the Government of Malaysia has conferred the award of Panglima Gagah Pasukan Polis on Commissioner Ng," the Singapore police said on Monday.

It added that the collaborations between both parties have yielded significant operational benefits for both forces in combating terrorism and transnational crime.

Mr Ng, who was appointed commissioner in 2010, said: "I am honoured to receive this award on behalf of the men and women of the Singapore Police Force.

"The award is a testimony to the strong working ties and friendship that we enjoy between our two forces, and we will continue to work closely with the Royal Malaysian Police in our joint fight against crime and wrongdoing."