Strengthening Ties: INS Sahyadri Enhances India-Malaysia Maritime Partnership During Kemaman Visit

The Indian Navy’s stealth frigate, INS Sahyadri, made an important stop in Kemaman, Malaysia, on October 2, 2025. This visit is part of its mission in the South China Sea and shows India’s dedication to building maritime ties and ensuring regional security through initiatives like ‘Aatmanirbhar Bharat’ and ‘Security and Growth for All in the Region (SAGAR)’.

The Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) welcomed INS Sahyadri warmly. This visit highlights the long-standing friendship and shared maritime culture between India and Malaysia.

INS Sahyadri: A Stealthy Marvel

Launched in 2012, INS Sahyadri (F49) is the third ship in the Shivalik-class of stealth frigates, built in India by Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited (MDL). These ships feature top-notch stealth capabilities and advanced weaponry. They are part of India’s journey toward self-reliance in defense.

Powered by a combination of diesel and gas turbines, INS Sahyadri can perform various tasks, from anti-air to long-range surveillance missions. Its advanced missiles, sonar, and electronic warfare systems showcase India’s progress in defense technology.

A Rich History of Cooperation

This marks INS Sahyadri’s third trip to Malaysia, following goodwill visits in 2016 and 2019. These visits, part of the Exercise ‘Samudra Laksamana’, focused on improving coordination between the Indian Navy and the RMN.

India and Malaysia have strengthened their naval ties through events like the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace (LIMA) exhibition and the MILAN multilateral exercises. In fact, the most recent exercise, Samudra Laksamana-III, in 2024, focused on maritime security and humanitarian assistance, highlighting the two nations’ shared goals.

The Bigger Picture: Indo-Pacific Security

INS Sahyadri’s deployment highlights India’s role in the Indo-Pacific region as a responsible maritime player. The visit aimed to enhance navy-to-navy cooperation and share best naval practices. These interactions are crucial for maintaining a secure maritime environment.

The three-day visit included:

• Meetings between the ship’s Commanding Officer and RMN officials, including First Admiral Abd Halim bin Kamarudin.
• Professional exchanges among Indian and Malaysian naval personnel.
• Community events, like sports and city tours for the crew.
• A charity drive that emphasized wellness and goodwill.

Through these activities, both navies reinforced their commitment to mutual respect and trust while ensuring safety in vital sea routes.

Geopolitical Context

The timing of this visit is significant, as the Indo-Pacific region faces growing strategic competition. India’s MAHASAGAR initiative, which promotes maritime cooperation, aligns perfectly with Malaysia’s support for ASEAN’s Outlook on the Indo-Pacific. Together, they aim for economic growth and stability in the region.

INS Sahyadri’s presence in the Indo-Pacific emphasizes the Indian Navy’s commitment to multilateral exercises and humanitarian efforts, establishing India as a secure partner in regional affairs.

The Human Touch in Diplomacy

Beyond military ties, INS Sahyadri’s visit also fostered closer connections between people. The crew engaged in community programs and cultural exchanges, showcasing the Indian Navy’s blend of operational readiness and humanitarian spirit.

In essence, the port call at Kemaman is not just a routine visit; it’s a symbol of the enduring partnership between India and Malaysia. As these two nations navigate changing dynamics in the maritime landscape, initiatives like Samudra Laksamana continue to build trust and collaboration in the region.

The deployment of INS Sahyadri proudly displays India’s growing maritime capabilities and its dedication to forging peaceful and prosperous partnerships across the Indo-Pacific.

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INS Sahyadri, Indian Navy, Malaysia, Indo-Pacific, South China Sea, Shivalik Class, Aatmanirbhar Bharat, Maritime Cooperation, Samudra Laksamana, Royal Malaysian Navy