Singapore, Malaysia navies complete bilateral maritime exercise Malapura
Separated by just two land border crossings and the Strait of Johor, neighbours Singapore and Malaysia have a long history of cooperation, including in maritime security.The two countries' navies on Friday (Oct 30) completed a five-day bilateral maritime exercise, codenamed Malapura, that was held in Singapore.The exercise dates back to 1984 and is part of regular interactions between the two navies.Singapore's Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) said in a news release on Friday evening that this year's exercise comprised a series of shore-based events, people-to-people interactions, professional exchanges, warfare planning, and sports activities.It involved crew from the Republic of Singapore Navy's (RSN) littoral mission vessel (LMV) Sovereignty and Formidable-class frigate Formidable, and a delegation of about 30 Royal Malaysia Navy (RMN) sailors from two frigates and its western fleet headquarters. RSN fleet commander Colonel (COL) Bertram Ang highlighted the importance of the exercise in deepening the professionalism and friendship between both navies.