2 September 2025
Chief of the Defence Force Admiral David Johnston welcomed General Tan Sri Nizam, Chief of Defence Force Malaysia, and his delegation to Canberra on August 19.
The visit served to highlight the importance of ongoing education exchanges and strategic studies engagement between the two nations, with an agreement signed between the Australian Defence College (ADC) and the Malaysian Centre for Defence Studies (Puspahanas) to acknowledge and formalise this engagement.
The memorandum of understanding is the first of its kind for a ‘sister college’ and formalises the ongoing exchange and engagement opportunities between all parts of the ADC and Puspahanas, as well as to enhancing the education and training program.
'Malaysia is one of Australia’s most important partners, and General Nizam’s visit was a valuable opportunity to discuss and strengthen our bilateral defence cooperation.'
It provides a formal framework to explore cooperation initiatives such as student and staff reciprocal visits, teaching staff exchanges, and enhanced people-to-people links and alumni engagement. It will allow both colleges to plan and deliver engagement activities that are meaningful, relevant and mutually beneficial.
Malaysia is a long-standing education and training partner for the ADC. Students from the country attend courses at the Australian War College (AWC) and the Australian Defence Force Academy on an annual basis.
“Malaysia is one of Australia’s most important partners, and General Nizam’s visit was a valuable opportunity to discuss and strengthen our bilateral defence cooperation,” Admiral Johnston said.
Brigadier Lara Troy, acting Commander Australian Defence College, reflected on the long-standing cooperation between the ADC and Puspahanas.
“Many Malaysian graduates of the ADC have gone on to senior leadership roles in the Malaysian Armed Forces, demonstrating the enduring value of our training and education relationship and the positive impact it has on both nations,” Brigadier Troy said.
“The agreement with Puspahanas will create new opportunities for structured exchanges, collaborative research and the sharing of expertise.”
The day also witnessed the induction of General Tan Sri Dato’ Seri Mohammad bin Ab Rahman – the former Malaysian Chief of the Defence Forces and ADC 2012 alumni – into the ADC Roll of Honour.
For more information about education and training through ADC, visit Australian Defence College | Defence Activities | Defence.
