Could INS Sandhayak's Visit to Malaysia Transform Maritime Collaboration?
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Synopsis
The arrival of INS Sandhayak in Malaysia marks a significant milestone in maritime relations, showcasing India's commitment to enhancing cooperation with Malaysia. This visit includes engaging activities with the Royal Malaysian Navy, educational outreach, and strengthens the bond between the two nations.
Key Takeaways
- INS Sandhayak is the first Indian hydrographic vessel to visit Malaysia.
- The visit aims to strengthen maritime cooperation between the two nations.
- Activities include expert exchanges and school visits.
- INS Sandhayak was commissioned in February 2024.
- The ship conducts hydrographic surveys for safe navigation.
Kuala Lumpur, July 17 (NationPress) In a historic moment for maritime relations, the Indian Naval ship INS Sandhayak has become the first hydrographic vessel from India to dock in Malaysia, receiving a warm welcome from the Royal Malaysian Navy at Port Klang on Thursday.
Scheduled from July 16-19, this visit will feature multiple collaborative activities with the Royal Malaysian Navy, all aimed at enhancing maritime cooperation between India and Malaysia.
"The Port Call by INS Sandhayak to Malaysia signifies a significant milestone. The Indian Navy's hydrographic vessel arrived at Port Klang on July 16 and was received with great hospitality by the Royal Malaysian Navy. Over the course of its stay from July 16-19, the ship is set to engage in fruitful interactions with the Royal Malaysian Navy, including a visit to the National Hydrographic Centre, expert exchanges, sports activities, and personnel cross-visits," stated the High Commission of India in Kuala Lumpur on X.
Furthermore, the Indian mission has announced plans for school visits and an on-board reception during the ship's visit.
Commissioned in February 2024, INS Sandhayak is the latest addition to the class of Survey Vessel (Large) built domestically in India.
As highlighted by the Indian High Commission, this is the first visit by an Indian hydrographic vessel to Malaysia, underscoring the robust relationship between the two nations and the growing naval collaboration.
INS Sandhayak (Yard 3025), the inaugural vessel of the Survey Vessel Large (SVL) class, was commissioned into the Indian Navy on February 3, 2024, during a ceremony attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam.
During his speech, the Defence Minister described this commissioning as a historic event, expressing confidence that INS Sandhayak would further bolster India's status as a superpower in the Indo-Pacific region and assist the Indian Navy in maintaining peace and security.
The ship's primary mission focuses on conducting comprehensive hydrographic surveys of ports, harbors, navigational channels, coastal areas, and open seas to facilitate safe maritime navigation.
Additionally, the ship is equipped to perform a variety of naval operations in its secondary role.
Over the years, India-Malaysia defence relations have witnessed consistent growth, encompassing military training, defense equipment supply, and enhanced security dialogues.
The Indian Navy frequently makes port calls in Malaysia, promoting interactions and fostering enduring friendships between the two navies.
India has also been a regular participant in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) and the Defence Services Asia (DSA) Exhibition in Malaysia.
Point of View
I believe the visit of INS Sandhayak to Malaysia is a remarkable development in the realm of international maritime cooperation. It reflects India's growing naval presence and commitment to collaborative security in the Indo-Pacific region, underscoring the importance of robust defense ties between nations. Such engagements not only enhance military cooperation but also foster mutual understanding and friendship.
NationPress
17/07/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the significance of INS Sandhayak's visit to Malaysia?
INS Sandhayak's visit marks the first time an Indian hydrographic vessel has docked in Malaysia, highlighting the strengthening of maritime cooperation between the two nations.
What activities are planned during INS Sandhayak's stay in Malaysia?
The visit includes engagements with the Royal Malaysian Navy, expert exchanges, sports interactions, and educational outreach programs.
When was INS Sandhayak commissioned?
INS Sandhayak was commissioned on February 3, 2024, and is the first ship in the Survey Vessel Large class.
How does INS Sandhayak contribute to maritime security?
INS Sandhayak conducts hydrographic surveys to ensure safe navigation in maritime regions, playing a crucial role in maritime security.
What is the broader impact of India-Malaysia defence relations?
The growing defence relations between India and Malaysia encompass military training, equipment supply, and enhanced security dialogues, fostering regional stability.
