The Royal Canadian Navy frigate (TLDK) HMCS Winnipeg (FFH 338) has completed its seven-day operational tour.
The ship arrived at Port Klang on 14 September with the welcome of the Canadian High Commissioner to Malaysia and senior officers of the RMAF led by Captain Shahris Faisal bin Abdullah TLDM, Director of Strategy and Policy, Naval Headquarters.
HMCS Winnipeg is a Halifax-class frigate and is headed by Commander Annick Fortin as Commanding Officer with a force of 250. Completed the assignment at the 2022 Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) Exercise, the ship has continued its voyage to Southeast Asia in Operation PROJECTION.
This is HMCS Winnipeg’s second visit to Malaysia, the ship arriving for the first time in 2017. This visit is also significant with the 65-year celebration of diplomatic relations between Malaysia and Canada.
Upon arrival at Port Klang, Commander Fortin and the delegation paid a courtesy visit to the Director General of Hydrographics, Laksamana Muda Datuk Hanafiah at the National Hydrographic Centre. The ship also held a reception which was also attended by the RMAF staff.
In addition, the citizens of HMCS Winnipeg have carried out pure soul activities at Mah Meri Community Centre with members of the local community and also visited Sunway International School. Commanding Officers with delegates including Juragan ship Chief Petty Officer 1st Class Sue Frisby shared experiences with about 500 students about working in a male-dominated field.
“This HMCS Winnipeg visit supports Canada’s efforts in diplomatic and defense relations in the Indo-Pacific region as well as highlights the long-lasting friendly relationship between Canada and Malaysia,” Canadian High Commissioner Wayne Robson said during a press conference before the ship departed from Port Klang.
“As the first TLDK ship to visit Malaysia since 2017, we deeply appreciate the support provided by the Royal Malaysian Navy and are delighted that this year is the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Canada and Malaysia.
“This is our third stopover in Operation PROJECTION 2022 and the crew have volunteered at a local school and participated in pure soul activities at the Mah Meri Community Centre. They also have the opportunity to visit and enjoy local food and receive good service,” said Commander Annick Fortin.
“We have always stuck to the ship’s motto “One with the strength of many” which demonstrates HMCS Winnipeg’s willingness to support Canada’s commitment to global peace and security, and strengthen ties with Canada’s allies and partners,” he added.
RMN photo