Indian Naval ships reach Malaysia hoping to strengthen overseas bond

Kuala Lumpur: Indian Naval Ships Shivalik and Jyoti reached Malaysia's Kuantan with a message of ensuring good order in the maritime domain and strengthening existing bonds between both the countries.

The ships that were on overseas deployment to Southeast Asia and Southern Indian Ocean, reached the destination on Sunday, a defence statement said.

Various activities such as official calls, formal reception on board ships, ships open to visitors, guided tours for Indian naval personnel and professional interaction between naval personnel of both the nations will be planned during the stay at Kuantan harbour till May 19, the statement said.

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"The visit of the Indian Naval Ships seeks to underscore India's peaceful presence and solidarity with friendly and harmonious countries towards ensuring good order in the maritime domain and to strengthen existing bonds between India and Malaysia," the statement said.

"The current deployment will contribute towards the Indian Navy's efforts to consolidate inter-operability and forge strong bonds of friendship across the seas," it added.

INS Shivalik, a multi-role stealth frigate is commanded by Captain R. Vinod Kumar while INS Jyoti, the fleet replenishment tanker, is commanded by Captain S. Shyam Sundar.