KD Lekir sails from Lumut for the Lekir Australia Deployment 2026, involving multinational exercises and defence diplomacy across the region.
LUMUT: The Royal Malaysian Navy ship KD Lekir commenced a two-month international deployment today. The vessel departed from the Lumut Naval Base for the Lekir Australia Deployment 2026 exercise.
The voyage was officiated by Western Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Datuk Baharudin Wan Md Nor. He stated that 150 personnel are involved in the deployment, led by Commanding Officer Commander Megat Mohamad Sofwan Firdaus Megat Mohamad Yunus.
All personnel underwent thorough preparation covering operational readiness and logistics. This ensures the ship is in optimum condition for sailing through regional and international waters.
The ship’s first engagement is the International Fleet Review in Sydney on March 21. This event marks the 125th anniversary of the Royal Australian Navy.
Baharudin said the large-scale event gathers 35 ships from 20 countries. It provides a vital platform to strengthen defence diplomacy among participating nations.
KD Lekir will also take part in Exercise Kakadu 26 from March 22 to 30. This biennial exercise involves 21 ships and a submarine from 14 countries.
After Sydney, KD Lekir will continue the Circumnavigation of the Australian Continent. This long voyage allows RMN personnel to gain experience in challenging sea conditions.
The ship will participate in the Malaysia-Australia Exercise in Perth from April 14 to 20. This bilateral exercise aims to strengthen professional ties between the two nations.
Before concluding the deployment, KD Lekir will conduct a port visit to Jakarta from April 26 to 29. This visit aims to strengthen bilateral relations and regional defence diplomacy.
On the way to Jakarta, a special commemorative event will be held in Northwest Australian waters. The event will remember the Malaysia Airlines MH370 tragedy and honour RMN ships involved in the search mission.
Baharudin said the RMN’s participation aims to build understanding and enhance joint operational capabilities. It also strengthens national security through bilateral and multilateral cooperation.
“This initiative aligns with the Ministry of Defence’s Strategy for Credible Partnerships,” he added. The training and experience gained will be optimised across all RMN missions.
The Sun Malaysia
