Liew (second right) with Robson (right) and Commanding Officer of the HCMS Ottawa Commander Sam Patchell (second left).
KOTA KINABALU: Canada will continue to work with Malaysia on defence as the Indo-Pacific is considered a region of great strategic and economic importance.
Canadian High Commissioner to Malaysia Wayne Robson said Canada valued this cooperation, adding that this was showcased by the presence of His Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) Ottawa here.
He said the vessel's stay in Malaysia was during the fourth port visit of its Indo-Pacific deployment but the first time a Canadian naval vessel has visited eastern Malaysia.
“The maiden visit of HMCS Ottawa to Malaysia is part of Canada's ongoing efforts to intensify our engagement in this region,” he said during a reception on board the ship on Wednesday (Oct 11) night.
"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 added.
He noted that the ship's visit to Malaysia helped mark the enduring relationship between the countries.
“This visit is significant being the first by a Canadian navy ship to 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. We must ensure that our relationship continues to mature,” Robson said.
Meanwhile, Sabah Tourism, Culture and Environment Minister Datuk Christina Liew welcomed the Canadian naval ship and its crew in the state.
Liew, who was representing the Chief Minister, said diversity was one thing that Canada and Malaysia shared.
She said this was in addition to their democratic values, desire for peace, stability and prosperity within the Indo-Pacific region.
She also expressed hope that the crew would find time to visit Sabah's attractions, including the Sepilok Orang Utan Rehabilitation Centre in Sandakan and Sipadan Island off the east coast, one of the top dive sites in the world.
HMCS Ottawa leaves for Singapore this Saturday (Oct 14).
