31ST ASEAN ARMIES RIFLE MEET KICKS OFF IN THAILAND
BANGKOK, Nov 20 (Bernama) -- A total of 42 Malaysian marksmen are competing in the 31st ASEAN Armies Rifle Meet (AARM 2023), which kicked off Monday at the Royal Thai Army Tactical Shooting Range in Prachuap Khiri Khan province.
Led by Army Deputy Chief Lt. Gen. Datuk Tengku Muhammad Fauzi Tengku Ibrahim, they are participating in five events: rifle, carbine, men's pistol, women's pistol, and machine gun.
A total of 427 personnel from 10 ASEAN countries are participating in AARM 2023, an annual multilateral competition between the ASEAN army members.
In his opening speech, Deputy Chief of the Royal Thai Army General Suksan Nongbualang said the AARM is aimed at further strengthening the relationship and friendship among leaders of the ASEAN armies and service personnel of all ranks.
He stated that the annual competition also intends to enhance the ability of ASEAN army personnel to operate their service weapons efficiently and effectively, as well as exchange military knowledge, skills, and experiences.
“As the host of this year’s event, the Royal Thai Army is most privileged and enthusiastic. Your participation in AARM 2023 reflects the long and mutual understanding, cordial relations, and esprit de corps that the ASEAN Armies share.
“AARM is a cornerstone of our military training and has been one of our most important military activities since its inception 31 years ago.
“I am optimistic that the shooting contingents from 10 ASEAN member states will excel in this Rifle Meet and reach their full potential,” he said.
The Deputy Chiefs of ASEAN Armies, along with designated officers, will participate in the Novelty Shoot, which consists of two events: Carbine and Pistol.
Malaysia hosted the first AARM at Terendak Camp in Malacca, Malaysia, in 1991 under the recommendation of the Malaysian Chief of Army at that time who suggested that the ASEAN armies engage in collaborative military activities.
Six member countries participating in the event include Brunei, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore, and Thailand, using the standard military/service weapon under the competition rules set by the host country.
-- BERNAMA
