16 June 2025
In a display of international collaboration, 92 Wing Alpha Detachment hosted Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) Butterworth’s key leadership and subject matter experts during Op Gateway 25-1/2.
The engagement saw RMAF Butterworth Base Commander, Brigadier General Tan Lai Hock and Defence Adviser – Australian High Commission Malaysia, Colonel Corey Shillabeer, tour the 92 Wing Detachment A Headquarters, participate in a P-8A Poseidon static display and meet deployed personnel – fortifying integral networks and partner alliances.
Operation Gateway Detachment Commander Squadron Leader Andrew Bartlett was proud to facilitate the engagement, which aligned strategic objectives and ensured ongoing collaboration.
“Our continuing relationships with our Malaysian partners fortify our ability to contribute to the region’s security, stability and prosperity,” Squadron Leader Bartlett said.
“Engagement activities such as this one are vital to ongoing Defence relationships, and further demonstrate our commitment to work together to safeguard maritime security.”
Operation Gateway is a key aspect of the Joint Australian-Malaysia Defence program, ultimately leading to an increased ability to preserve regional stability in the South-East Asian region.
'Our continuing relationships with our Malaysian partners fortify our ability to contribute to the region’s security, stability and prosperity.'
Throughout the operational program, deployed members engaged with a number of key local units on base, including Joint Health Command-Butterworth, 19 Squadron and Australian Army’s 2nd/30th Training Group for Rifle Company Butterworth.
Activities included subject matter exchanges, community engagements and local hospital visits.
Operation Gateway Aviation Nursing Officer, Flight Lieutenant Andrew George, enjoyed the opportunity to collaborate with RMAF personnel and deployed RAAF medical staff alike.
“Working here during Operation Gateway has been an incredible opportunity to build strong ties with our Malaysian partners, while focusing on interoperability in addition to enhancing our diplomatic and defence affiliation,” Flight Lieutenant George said.
“It’s been great to be able to support operational objectives by providing round-the-clock access to medical services for our deployed members.”
Under Operation Gateway, key leadership and subject matter expert engagement opportunities like this strengthen the bond between the two nations and contribute to regional stability, ensuring that both Australia and Malaysia remain steadfast allies in the face of evolving global challenges.
