MINISTER FOR DEFENCE VISITS RAAF BASE BUTTERWORTH IN MALAYSIA

The Minister for Defence, the Hon. Joel Fitzgibbon MP, has today visited the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base in Butterworth, Malaysia and met with Australian Defence Force members based there.

“It has been a pleasure to visit Butterworth, a base that is of such significance to Australia’s Defence history,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

“The Australian Defence Force continues to benefit from its access to RMAF Base Butterworth in the form of high-level jungle training, and as a location from which Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) exercises and maritime surveillance operations can take place.” 

The Minister also met with Air-Vice Marshal Kevin Paule AM, the Australian Commander of the Integrated Area Defence Systems based at RMAF Butterworth.

“It has been a great pleasure to meet and talk to ADF personnel here at Butterworth, and to gain an on-the-ground insight into the very important work they do in contributing to regional security.”

The ADF has had a presence at RMAF Butterworth since the late 1950s. Between 1958 and 1970, the RAAF contributed numerous units and resources in the defence of Malaysia.

Today, over 40 personnel contribute to ADF operations and exercises which contribute to regional security and stability. 

“Butterworth is of great importance to the ADF as a base from which we can make a contribution to regional security and resilience, particularly with regard to maritime security and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief,” Mr Fitzgibbon said.

“This visit has made clear the significance of Butterworth to Australia’s capability to enhance regional security.”

Media Contacts:

Clare Enyi (Joel Fitzgibbon):           02 6277 7800 or 0404 893 565

Defence Media Liaison:                   02 6265 3343 or 0408 498 664