Hundreds of Australian defence personnel have arrived in Malaysia for a series of exercises with a number of allies.

Personnel from New Zealand, Singapore, Malaysia and the United Kingdom are also taking part in Bersama Shield 2008.

During the event the countries will practice air, ground and naval exercises under the auspices of the nations' Five Power Defence Arrangements.

The Australian Defence Force says its personnel will be put through a rigorous training schedule.

The event ends on Saturday.

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