CONTRIBUTING TO THE COMMUNITY

The Republic of Singapore Air Force (RSAF) and the Indonesian Air Force (TNI-AU) showed their care for the community of Madiun by participating in a joint socio-civic programme at the Iswahyudi AFB Hospital.

Both forces are currently conducting a biennial air exercise, codenamed Elang Indopura, in Madiun, Indonesia from 11 to 22 Jul.

But on 15 Jul, they took time off to contribute to the well-being of the town's community by donating basic necessities and providing free medical services.

"When we come to another country to operate, it is important to show the local community that we understand and share their concerns as well," said Colonel (COL) Peter Ware, the RSAF Exercise Director.

COL Abdul Muis, the TNI-AU Exercise Director added that the programme helped the community understand what the two air forces were doing in Madiun.

"We are not only performing military tasks but also contributing to the civilians around us," said COL Muis.

An SAF doctor attending to a local of Madiun.

During the socio-civic programme, a total of 5,600 kilograms of basic necessities like rice, palm oil and instant noodles were given out.

In addition, medical representatives from both forces came together to provide medical care like free medical consultation, dental checks and even minor operations for the people.

It was a job well done, according to Captain (CPT) (Dr) Santoso of TNI-AU.

"This is a first experience for us - to cooperate with the RSAF and their medical team," said CPT (Dr) Santoso. "The people responded positively to this activity and thanked the RSAF for their participation and attention."

CPT (Dr) Andrew Tan of the RSAF agreed.

The dentist with the National Dental Centre took this opportunity to perform his national service duties by travelling to the Indonesian town to help the people, alongside the TNI-AU dentists.
Through the help of the locals, CPT (Dr) Tan was able to communicate effectively with the patients and gain a better understanding of their condition.

"We had good help from the TNI-AU personnel and it s been a very cordial relationship," said CPT (Dr) Tan.

Both CPT (Dr) Tan and CPT (Dr) Santoso s efforts were warmly welcomed by Mr Supardi, head of the Maospati village and his people. Mr Supardi and his people were among some 300 who benefited from the socio-civic programme. They also received basic necessities contributed by the RSAF.

"We appreciate the activities, especially the delivery of staple food to the people," said Mr Supardi. "We hope that this kind of activities will continue in the future, especially between the RSAF and TNI-AU."

Mr Supardi (centre) thanks the RSAF and TNI-AU on behalf of the villagers (behind).