Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) Admiral (ADM) Datuk Zulhelmy bin Ithnain called on Minister for Defence Dr Ng Eng Hen at the Ministry of Defence this afternoon. During their meeting, Dr Ng and ADM Zulhelmy reaffirmed the importance of maintaining strong ties between the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the RMN, and discussed regional security developments. 

ADM Zulhelmy, who is in Singapore for an introductory visit from 12 to 14 November 2024, also called on Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral (RADM) Sean Wat, after inspecting a Guard of Honour. Both Chiefs discussed opportunities to strengthen the RMN-RSN relationship.

As part of his programme, ADM Zulhelmy will visit RSS Singapura – Changi Naval Base tomorrow morning. He will visit the Information Fusion Centre and be hosted onboard the Formidable-class frigate, RSS Supreme. ADM Zulhelmy will also grace the opening ceremony of Exercise Malapura 2024 with RADM Wat, to commemorate the 40^th anniversary of this flagship bilateral exercise between the RSN and the RMN. Exercise Malapura 2024 will be conducted from 13 to 24 November 2024.

ADM Zulhelmy’s visit underscores the warm and long-standing bilateral defence relations between Singapore and Malaysia. The RSN and the RMN interact regularly through bilateral exercises, visits, and professional exchanges. Beyond collaborative efforts to safeguard regional maritime security through the Malacca Straits Patrol, our navies also interact through exercises held under the ambit of multilateral platforms such as the Five Power Defence Arrangements, the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM), and the ADMM-Plus. These interactions have enhanced mutual understanding and professional ties between the two navies.