GEORGE TOWN: There should be no speculation over the visit of two Chinese navy vessels to Penang as it was done through official channels.
State Tourism and Creative Economy Committee chairman Wong Hon Wai said it was a goodwill visit that included students from Naval University of Engineering China and whatever being said on social media was untrue.
He said the resident naval officer of the Royal Malaysian Navy in Penang had greeted the ships, along with state government leaders.
"The two ships were here for three days and have since departed for Chittagong, Bangladesh.
"It is just a friendly stopover as the ships are heading to Indian Ocean.
"As such, the people need not be overly worried about this goodwill visit," he told the New Straits Times today.
Social media was abuzz last weekend with photos of Chinese naval training ships in Penang waters.
According to China's Ministry of Defence, the naval training ship Qi Jiguang and amphibious dock landing ship Jinggangshan arrived at the Penang port here last Saturday as part of a three-day goodwill visit.
Wong also said the Chinese navy cadets had visited SM Chung Ling (Persendirian) for sports and cultural activities.
He said the visit was managed by the Chinese Consulate General here.
"In fact, naval ships from other countries have also docked at our port.
"The relationship between Malaysia and China is good and leaders of both countries have even visited one another.
"As such, the recent goodwill visit by the naval ships and students from Naval University of Engineering China should be viewed positively," he added.