PUTRAJAYA, 29th August 2024, MCSCJ Serial 53/2024 celebrated 78th India Independence Day at Hikmat Hall, Malaysian Armed Forces Staff College (MAFSC). This celebration was held in conjunction with India Independence Day which is celebrated on August 15 every year.

The ceremony started at 1300 hours with the arrival of Chief Directing Staff (CDS), Kol Sukiman bin Mohamed Ghani, who represented the Commandant.

Malaysia and India have established diplomatic relations since 1954, when India Prime Minister Jawaharlal Nehru visited Malaysia. It was followed by the opening of the India Embassy in Malaysia at the beginning of September 1957 and the opening of the Malaysia Embassy in India on 27 September 1957. Excellent relations between Malaysia and India involve defence including joint exercises, defence industry cooperations and strategic dialogue between the two countries including economic and geopolitical issues.

The Indian officers who are currently attending MCSCJ Serial 53/2024 include Sqn Ldr Jashandeep Singh (India Airforce), Lt Cdr Anoop Kumar Mishra (India Navy) and Maj Divyadeep Narula (India Army).

The celebration of India Independence Day began with the India Country Brief followed by the cake cutting ceremony and the event concluded with the exchange of mementos.

The organisation of such events was seen to have a significant impact in strengthening international relations, particularly through the context of Professional Military Education (PME). This is in line with the vision and mission outlined by PUSPAHANAS as a prestigious military studies centre in Malaysia.