Following China’s Visit, Four Russian Warships to Dock in Penang

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Just days after Penang received visits from two Chinese warships, four more warships from the Russian Pacific Fleet will dock in the state starting today until Wednesday.

It is understood that the Russian warships are visiting Penang to participate in a ceremony commemorating the 110th anniversary of the sinking of the Russian cruiser “Zhemchug,” which will be held in George Town Port tomorrow.

Russian cruiser, “Zhemchug” (Pearl) sank in the Battle of Penang during World War 1 when the warship was attacked by a German cruiser, SMS Emden, leaving 88 Russian sailors perished.

Among those expected to attend the ceremony tomorrow are the Russian Federation’s Ambassador to Malaysia, Nalyl Latypov, and Captain 1st Rank Alexei Antisiferov.

According to local media reports, the Malaysian government has granted permission for the Russian warships to dock in Penang.

The warships from the Russian Pacific Fleet are believed to include the corvettes Gromky, Rezky, Aldar Tsydenzhapov, and the fuel supply ship Pechenga.

Local media also reported that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs has outlined several local and military regulations that the Russian warships must adhere to while in Malaysia.

“While the Russian warships are docked, the use of electronic equipment must be minimized, and the safety of the ships and their crews must be ensured,” the report stated.

“All costs incurred during the docking will be borne by the Russian Federation,” the report added, noting that the presence of the Russian warships provides an opportunity for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to strengthen relations with Moscow.

Just a few days ago, two training cum warships from the People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) Task Group 83, “Qi Jiguang” and “Jinggang Shan”, made a port call at George Town Port.

Former Deputy Defense Minister Ikmal Hisham Abdul Aziz criticized the visit of the two Chinese naval vessels, stating that the Penang state government’s warm reception for the PLAN sailors and cadets was unusual.

“I am also puzzled by the choice of Penang Port by Task Group 83 of the People’s Republic of China, instead of other Malaysian ports such as Port Klang or Langkawi Port,” said Ikmal, who is also the Member of Parliament for Tanah Merah.

Ikmal added that the extraordinary reception by the Penang government sent the wrong message to Malaysians and was insensitive to the issue of overlapping claims in the South China Sea.

“This is considering that PLAN China continuously deploys its naval assets, supported by the Chinese coast guard, in the Beting Patinggi Ali area in their efforts to claim the area as part of their territorial waters,” he said.

It was reported that the Penang State Assembly Speaker, Law Choo Kiang, received a courtesy call from the commanders of the two ships, and PLAN sailors and cadets also visited Chung Ling High School, a private institution.

Former Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Saifuddin Abdullah also criticized the lavish reception for the two Chinese warships, calling it “illogical,” especially at a time when Malaysia’s waters in Sabah and Sarawak are being encroached upon by Chinese assets. — DSA