KUCHING: The UK Navy's offshore patrol vessel, HMS Spey, has made its maiden visit to Sarawak.
The vessel arrived on Monday (Oct 21) to promote bilateral cooperation after stopping in Port Klang, Penang and Kuantan.
The British High Commission in Malaysia said the visit reflects the UK's commitment to strengthening ties with Sarawak.
"We see great potential for collaboration between the UK and Sarawak, and this visit is a testament to that effort," said Acting Deputy British High Commissioner to Malaysia, Tom Shepherd in a statement on Wednesday (Oct 23).
During the visit, Shepherd and HMS Spey Executive Officer Lt Cdr Kris White jointly hosted a dinner onboard for senior politicians in Sarawak, and a wider reception for key stakeholders in the state.
The ship also had a teach-in session with SMD Semiconductor Sarawak and conducted a ship tour for students from the Sarawak Foundation International School.
Members of the crew would also have a chance to sample some of the culture and nature of Sarawak before the ship departs.
The United Kingdom shares a strong defence partnership with Malaysia, including participating in bilateral exercises with Malaysia such as Ex Tiger Gold and maritime manoeuvres (Passex) with the Royal Malaysian Navy, strengthening and building on a close and historic relationship to support peace and security in the region.
"Our defence partnership also includes membership of the Five Powers Defence Arrangement (FPDA), comprising the United Kingdom, Malaysia, Singapore, Australia and New Zealand," the statement said.
Through the FPDA, member nations participate in multilateral exercises like Ex Bersama Lima and Ex Bersama Shield, which are focusing on combined joint operations in a multi-threat environment, with training designed to enhance inter-operability and strengthen multilateral military relationships.
The UK works closely with its partners in Southeast Asia to ensure a secure, prosperous and sustainable maritime domain, in accordance with the Rules-Based International System. – Bernama
We welcome @HMS_Spey on her 1st visit to #Kuching to promote
