Kuala Lumpur: The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) continues to advance as Malaysia's primary maritime defense force through strategic initiatives aimed at safeguarding the nation's sovereignty and maritime safety.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Chief of Navy Admiral Datuk Zulhelmy Ithnain highlighted the Navy's progress in asset procurement, including the Littoral Mission Ship Batch 2 (LMSB2), Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), and Fast Interceptor Craft (FIC). The keel laying of the LMSB2 was completed on April 8 at Istanbul Shipyard, Turkey, marking a significant milestone in its construction, expected to be completed by mid-2026 and delivered to the RMN by the end of 2027.
Admiral Zulhelmy stated that the LC1 is scheduled for delivery to the Navy in August 2026, with construction for LCS 2 and LCS 3 commencing in June 2025 and January 2026, respectively. From the 19 FIC units approved in 2020 for Op Benteng, 14 have already been received, with the remainder expected by year-end.
The RMN's future plans include acquiring two Multi Role Support Ships (MRSS), three LMS Batch 3, and four Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) helicopters for operation before 2035 under the 13th Malaysia Plan. These assets aim to enhance the Navy's capabilities and will be developed through collaborations with local and international shipyards to boost the national defense industry and reduce reliance on foreign manufacturers.
To support ongoing operations, the Navy is focusing on infrastructure development, such as the Naval Region 4 Headquarters (MAWILLA 4) in Sarawak, to protect strategic interests in Borneo waters. Additionally, the welfare of naval personnel is a priority, with new Armed Forces Family Home projects underway at the National Hydrography Centre, Kota Kinabalu Naval Base, and Naval Region 2 Headquarters in Sandakan.
In conjunction with the 91st Navy Day celebrations, Admiral Zulhelmy announced moderated yet engaging events, including a parade, blood drive, welfare visits, and Armada Open Days at naval bases in Kota Kinabalu, Tanjung Gelang in Kuantan, and Sandakan. Despite the tragic loss of 10 personnel in a helicopter crash during last year's rehearsals, the Navy remains committed to a people-oriented approach.
Admiral Zulhelmy expressed confidence in the Transformation 15to5 Plan and the maritime defense policy, envisioning the RMN as a modern, dedicated, and respected naval force in the region. He hopes for continued public support in defending Malaysia's maritime sovereignty.