Kota Kinabalu: Australian defence personnel were drawn to Kota Kinabalu’s unique beauty and chose it to strengthen ties with the Malaysian Armed Forces during the Indo-Pacific Endeavour (IPE) 2024.
IPE 2024 marks the programme’s return to Malaysia with the arrival of the Royal Australian Navy’s guided-missile destroyer, HMAS Sydney, along with 239 Australian Navy personnel, from Oct 1 to 11.
Commander of IPE 2024, Commodore Michael Harris (pic), said this is the second time an Australian Navy ship has visited Kota Kinabalu, but it is his first time in the city as commander.
“I have previously operated out of Lumut and Kuantan, where major exercises take place on the western side of Peninsular Malaysia. This is my first time in Kota Kinabalu, and I think I’ll come back with my wife for a holiday — it’s wonderful,” he said.
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“The beauty of the region offers a welcome respite for the crew, helping to maintain morale. This is especially important since the crew has been at sea for several months and needs some rest,” he said.
Although Harris could not confirm future visits, he is confident that Australian ships will continue to work with the Royal Malaysian Navy, whether in Kota Kinabalu or elsewhere in Malaysia.
He said the IPE 24 will serve as a platform for Australia and Malaysia to further strengthen their friendship and understanding as longstanding partners in defence.
Commenting on Australia’s position regarding territorial disputes in Southeast Asia, particularly China’s increased assertiveness in the South China Sea, Harris said Australia is an integral part of the Indo-Pacific region, not an external actor.
“Australia has operated across the region for decades. We are of, with, and for the region, working with our partners to ensure a prosperous, stable and peaceful Indo-Pacific region, with all countries respecting international law and national sovereignty,” he said.
Activities during IPE 2024 include forums on international humanitarian and cyber law, faith-based initiatives and sporting events, such as friendly badminton matches with the Royal Malaysian Navy.
“Throughout IPE 2024, we will engage, train and learn from each other on maritime security and cyber operations to bolster the protection of the Indo-Pacific region.
“Australia values its strong defence and people-to-people ties with Malaysia, and we look forward to deepening this cooperation to help maintain a peaceful, secure and prosperous Indo-Pacific for all,” Harris said.
IPE is an annual programme that supports the Australian government’s commitment to deepening diplomatic and defence partnerships across Southeast Asia and the Northeast Indian Ocean. The initiative spans 14 countries and has been ongoing since 2017.
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