Kota Kinabalu: Canada values defence cooperation with Malaysia as the Indo-Pacific is considered a region of great strategic and economic importance, said High Commissioner to Malaysia Wayne Robson.
Speaking at the reception on board the HMCS Ottawa (Canadian naval ship), he said:
“The maiden visit of the HMCS Ottawa to Malaysia is part of Canada’s ongoing efforts to intensify our engagement in this region.
“In an increasingly complex global environment, Canada recognises the need to reinforce our support for security and stability in the Indo-Pacific.
“Working closely with our allies and partners in the region has never been more important than it is today.”
Robson said the visit of HMCS Ottawa to Malaysia helped mark the enduring relationship between Canada and Malaysia, adding “this visit is significant being the first by a Canadian Navy ship to the State of Sabah.”
Secondly, it serves to illustrate the important values embraced by both countries, that is, democracy, desire for peace, stability and prosperity within the Indo-Pacific.
“Canada and Malaysia have worked alongside each other for a prosperous and safer world. Tonight’s reception provides an opportunity for us to remember these important milestones and to acknowledge that our work is not done. We must ensure that our relationship continues to mature.”
Malaysia has been a member of Canada’s Military and Training Cooperation Programme since 1966; one of the first countries to join.
In the intervening years, more than 650 Officers and soldiers have been trained through the programme.
It was also pointed out that the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) has also facilitated the training of hundreds of Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) personnel in Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear operations through its Mantis programme.
HE Robson announced that the Malaysian and Canadian Armed Forces have reviewed the Mantis technical agreement, and it is currently in the final signing stages for renewal.
“It is a testament to the positive and productive relationship that our countries actually increased defence and security cooperation during the Covid-19 pandemic,” he said.
