Defence perm sec conferred Thai royal decoration for contributions

Permanent Secretary for Defence Chiang Chie Foo was conferred a Thai royal decoration on Friday afternoon in recognition of his contributions to the military cooperation between Singapore and Thailand.

Mr Chiang received the "Knight Grand Cross (First Class) of the Most Exalted Order of the White Elephant" from his Thai counterpart General Tanongsak Apirakyotin, who presented it on behalf of the King of Thailand.

The award marks long-time defence ties between both nations and was presented at a ceremony held at the Ministry of Defence in Thailand, where Mr Chiang is currently for an official visit that will conclude on Aug 25.

It was reported earlier that Mr Chiang, 56, will retire from the elite Administrative Service on Sept 1, after 32 years of service. Stepping into his shoes as Permanent Secretary (Defence) is Mr Chan Yeng Kit, 48, who was appointed Permanent Secretary (Defence Development) last year. Mr Chiang will continue to work in the public sector as chairman of the Central Provident Fund Board, an appointment he has held since July.

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