KOTA KINABALU: The strong ties between personnel of the Malaysian navy and Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) was apparentduring a dinner reception on board the Akizuki warship here, yesterday.
Despite the language barrier, the Malaysian and Japanese navy personnel mingled and exchanged knowledge and experiences.
Also present were Deputy Chief Minister Tan Sri Joseph Pairin Kitingan, who was the guest of honour, and Sabah Legislative Assembly deputy speaker Datuk Johnson Tee.
At the reception, guests were served with a variety of Japanese cuisine and entertained with a martial arts performance.
The Japanese naval vessel - Akizuki - and submarine Mischisio made its first international port of call at the Sepanggar navy base, yesterday morning.
Earlier in a welcome speech, Consul of the Japan's Consular Office here Hiroko Matsuo said choosing Sabah's state capital as the first foreign port indicated how important the Kota Kinabalu naval nase was for Japan.
"I firmly believe in its significant role in the protection and the security of our nations as well as the maintained stability in this region.
"The vessel Akizuki will conduct a passage exercise with Malaysian vessel KD Kedah and I believe this Malaysia-Japan joint exercise will open the page for closer ties between our two defence organisations and nations amid the increasingly critical security environment in this region," she said.
Meanwhile, Eastern Fleet deputy commander First Admiral Khalid Jaafar noted that Malaysia and Japan have long had a good relationship in terms of politics, economics, and defence.
"Every year, we are honoured to receive ships from JMSDF especially in Kota Kinabalu. It is our hope that this visit will strengthen the long established relationship.