LUMUT – Malaysia’s third Littoral Combat Ship (LCS 3) was officially named and launched at Lumut Naval Shipyard Sdn. Bhd. (LUNAS), marking a significant step in the Royal Malaysian Navy’s modernisation agenda.
The ceremony was officiated by His Excellency, Yang di-Pertua Negeri Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah Mohd Sanusi.
Their presence highlighted the importance of the event, which saw the vessel permanently named Sharif Mashor, in honour of the Sarawak warrior remembered for his courage and resistance against colonial forces.
The delegation included YB Dato Sri Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Minister of Tourism, Creative Industry and Performing Arts, with his wife Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini Abdul Jabbar, as well as family members of the Sarawak Governor.
They were warmly received by Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, Royal Malaysian Navy Commander Admiral Tan Sri Dr Zulhelmy Ithnain, and LUNAS Chief Executive Officer Ir. Azhar Jumaat, together with their spouses.
The ceremony began with the singing of Negaraku and Lagu Ibu Pertiwi, followed by Quranic recitations from Surah Al-Baqarah verse 164 and prayers led by Colonel Ahmad Kamil Abdullah of Naval Headquarters.
In his welcoming remarks, CEO Ir. Azhar Jumaat expressed deep appreciation for the Governor and Toh Puan’s attendance, describing it as a meaningful honour for LUNAS employees.
He emphasised that the Coastal Combat Ship programme represents not only the construction of advanced naval assets but also the development of human capital and the strengthening of Malaysia’s defence industry.
Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari, speaking on behalf of the Defence Minister, extended gratitude to Allah SWT for the successful ceremony and acknowledged the significance of naming the ship after Sharif Mashor.
He noted that the choice symbolises heroism, resilience, and the enduring struggle to defend the homeland, while reinforcing the strength of the Royal Malaysian Navy fleet.
The event featured cultural performances, including poetry recitation by Encik Azamin Itam and a pantomime by the Naval Special Forces Headquarters, depicting the historical struggles of Sharif Mashor.
The highlight of the ceremony was the official naming and launching of LCS 3, officiated by Toh Puan Fauziah. The symbolic act was accompanied by the national anthem and a photo session.
Following the launch, the Sarawak Governor and Toh Puan expressed appreciation to the Royal Malaysian Navy and LUNAS for their dedication to the project.
They emphasised that the new vessel represents a strategic asset that will strengthen Malaysia’s maritime defence capabilities and contribute to safeguarding national sovereignty.
The ceremony concluded with Tun Pehin Sri receiving the Main Guard of Honour at the Western Fleet Headquarters. A final prayer was led by Ustaz Mejar Azlan Abdullah before the governor departed via helicopter from the RMN Air Headquarters.
The launch of Sharif Mashor reflects Malaysia’s ongoing commitment to modernising its naval fleet, enhancing maritime security, and honouring historical figures who embody courage and unity.
