Singapore and Malaysia Navies Strengthen Bilateral Defence Relations with the Conclusion of Exercise Malapura

Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) ships sailing in formation.

A RSN personnel briefing the RMN personnel aboard RSS Steadfast during the deck familiarisation serial.

RSN sailors onboard RSS Fearless lining the deck during the sail-past.

RSN Fleet Commander Rear Admiral Kwan Hon Chuong (8th from left) and RMN Western Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Dato Baharudin bin Wan Md Nor (7th from right) with exercise commanders from both navies at the closing ceremony.

The Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) conducted the 33rd edition of bilateral Exercise Malapura from 7 to 17 October 2025. The RSN deployed a Formidable-class frigate, RSS Steadfast, with an S-70B naval helicopter embarked; a Victory-class missile corvette, RSS Vigour; and an Independence-class littoral mission vessel, RSS Fearless. The RMN deployed a Lekiu-class frigate, KD Lekiu; a Kedah-class offshore patrol vessel, KD Terengganu; and a Handalan-class fast attack craft, KD Perkasa. Two Royal Malaysian Air Force Su-30 MKM fighter aircraft also took part in the exercise. 

During the shore phase held at Lumut Naval Base, Malaysia, from 7 to 10 October, sailors from both navies conducted professional exchanges, exercise planning, and sports activities. The sea phase of the exercise took place in the Malacca Strait from 11 to 14 October, where both navies conducted air defence exercise, gunnery firings, helicopter cross-deck landings of the S-70B on KD Lekiu and the Super Lynx helicopter on RSS Steadfast, maritime security drills, as well as communications and manoeuvring serials. The exercise concluded on 17 October with a closing ceremony at RSS Singapura - Changi Naval Base.

Speaking at the closing ceremony, RSN Fleet Commander, Rear-Admiral (RADM) Kwan Hon Chuong highlighted the importance of the exercise in deepening the professionalism and friendship between both navies. He said, “This marks the 33^rd time our navies have come together since 1984, a clear sign of how far we have progressed as partners. Exercise Malapura remains the hallmark exercise between both our countries, showcasing the deep trust, mutual respect, and unwavering commitment that truly define the relationship between the RMN and RSN.” 

CAPT Jamhari bin Katimin, Director Readiness, Western Fleet, added that Exercise Malapura had developed into a mutually beneficial annual interaction for both navies. “The conduct of Exercise Malapura is a significant event for all of us. These continuing initiatives have guided us in our journey to enhance and strengthen our cooperation and will be a benchmark for future engagement.” he said. 

First held in 1984, Exercise Malapura highlights the warm and long-standing defence relations between Singapore and Malaysia. The RSN and RMN interact regularly across a wide range of activities, including bilateral exchanges and cross-attendance of courses and multilateral activities under the ambit of the Five Power Defence Arrangements and the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM)/ADMM-Plus. The two navies also work alongside to reinforce maritime security through the Malacca Straits Patrol. Most recently, the RSN and RMN signed the Arrangement for Mutual Submarine Rescue Support and Cooperation, which establishes a framework for mutual support and assistance in the event of a submarine incident. Together, these activities continue to enhance the practical cooperation and professional ties between both navies.