Frigate to open as Perak ship museum in 2027

A symbolic handover of ‘KD Hang Tuah’ by Vice-Admiral Baharudin (left) to Saarani at the TLDM base in Lumut.

THE decommissioned KD Hang Tuah, which was recently handed over by the Royal Malaysian Navy (TLDM) to Perak government, will open to the public as a ship memorial museum next year.

Perak Mentri Besar Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad said the public-private partnership (PPP) project would integrate historical heritage, education, tourism and community development.

He said the project was being undertaken by Menteri Besar Incorporated Perak (MB Inc) and Aero Art Sdn Bhd, which would coordinate and oversee its implementation.

“The project will include a public park with free access, commercial zone for local entrepreneurs, family and community activity spaces, as well as facilities for programmes, exhibitions and conferences.

“The first phase costing RM30mil will be implemented in stages,” he said during a press conference after the handover ceremony by TLDM Commander of the Western Fleet Vice-Admiral Datuk Baharudin Wan Md Nor at the Lumut naval base.

A silent drill performance during the handover ceremony.

Saarani said the project was also aimed at revitalising the Marina Wing and Esplanade areas in Lumut through increased visitor arrivals, greater business activity and the creation of employment opportunities.

“It is in line with the Perak Sejahtera 2030 plan which emphasises sustainable development to stimulate the local economy and expand income-generating opportunities,” he said in a Bernama report.

He said the military tourism concept introduced through the memorial museum would diversify Perak’s maritime tourism products.

It would also serve as a tribute to the service and sacrifices of TLDM personnel in safeguarding the nation’s maritime security and sovereignty, he added.