Baharudin (fourth right) and Berry (centre) with RMN and Indian Navy officers.
KOTA KINABALU: The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) continue to strengthen bilateral exercise with their navy counterparts after receiving another port call from the Eastern Fleet of the Indian Navy at the Sepanggar naval base yesterday.
RMN Submarine Force Commander, First Admiral Baharudin bin Wan Md Nor said the Samudera Laksamana 2019 exercise, which is carried out every two years, is to strengthen bilateral relationships between Malaysia and India.
“The Samudera Laksamana 2019 exercise is an important event which marks another milestone in our effort to foster close relationship between our navies.
“As everyone is aware, both the Indian Navy and the Royal Malaysian Navy have a long history of working together.
“We share part of our history by being members of the Commonwealth, therefore it is no surprise that we adhere to similar procedures and practices.
“But more importantly, we share common virtues which are our unwavering commitment and steadfast belief in peace, stability as well as respect for international law,” he said at the event yesterday.
Also present was Eastern Fleet of the Indian Navy, Flag Officer Commanding, Rear Admiral Suraj Berry.
The objective of the exercise was to provide an opportunity for the RMN to share and exchange ideas, enhance military efficiency and strengthen bilateral relationship between Malaysia and India.
Baharudin said the four-day exercise involved one RMN ship, KD Kelantan, and two Indian navy ships, namely INS Sahyadri and INS Kiltan.
“Some 600 navy officers and personnel from both the RMN and Indian Navy will take part in the exercise in the South China Sea waters with focus on maritime security,” he said, adding that the exercise will also emphasise the concept of interoperability between both countries.
Meanwhile, Berry thanked the RMN for their warm hospitality in receiving the Indian Navy for the exercise.
“It is always wonderful to have the chance to interact with our friends from the Royal Malaysian Navy, a very professional force.
“The aim of the exercise is to enhance our operative ability as well as to work together as a force.
“If circumstances do occur, both countries will be able to operate to ensure the safety and security at sea for both countries,” he said.