LUMUT – The Governor of Sarawak, Tun Pehin Sri Dr Haji Wan Junaidi bin Tuanku Jaafar, accompanied by his wife Toh Puan Datuk Patinggi Fauziah binti Mohd Sanusi, arrived at the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) Air Headquarters in Lumut, Perak, at 10.00 am on Sunday for an official visit.
The governor was escorted by YB Dato Sri Haji Abdul Karim Rahman Hamzah, Sarawak’s Minister of Tourism, Creative Industries and Performing Arts, who also holds the portfolio of Minister of Youth, Sports and Entrepreneur Development.
He was joined by his wife, Datin Sri Hajah Zuraini binti Abdul Jaabar. Family members also accompanied the delegation, including Sharifah Nong-Jasima, daughter of Sharifah Fariah, and her husband, Encik Muhammad Nur Hakeem Yusop.
Upon arrival, the governor and Toh Puan were warmly received by senior naval leadership. Welcoming them were Admiral Tan Sri (Dr) Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, Commander of the RMN, alongside his wife, Puan Sri Zamzelina binti Ahmad.
Also present were Vice Admiral Badarudin bin Taha, Deputy Commander of the RMN, and Vice Admiral Dato’ Baharudin bin Wan Md Nor, Commander of the RMN Western Fleet, together with senior officers. A prayer was read by Ustaz Major Azlan bin Abdullah, Religious Officer of the Western Fleet Command Headquarters.
The official programme began with the Governor receiving the Main Guard of Honour and inspecting the line at the Western Fleet Headquarters, a ceremonial gesture of respect by the RMN. Following this, the Governor and Toh Puan proceeded to Jugra (Istana Hinggap Sultan Selangor) for a courtesy call with the Navy Commander, where they also signed the official visit book and attended a photo session with senior naval officers.
The visit included a comprehensive briefing on RMN operations, outlining the strategic role of the navy in safeguarding Malaysia’s maritime sovereignty. The Governor and Toh Puan later toured several key facilities at the Lumut Base, including operational and strategic areas.
At the operational jetty, the delegation boarded KD Indera Sakti, a vessel scheduled to depart for India to participate in the MILAN/IFR 2026 naval exercises in Visakhapatnam. During the visit, the governor received a briefing from the RMN commander, inspected the ship, and interacted with Sarawakian-born crew members. The session concluded with photographs taken alongside the officers and crew, led by Captain Ananthan Tharmalingam.
The programme continued with a friendly reception involving Sarawakian personnel serving in the RMN, followed by a luncheon held in a cordial atmosphere. During the ceremony, the Governor and Toh Puan presented the Outstanding Sarawak Child Award and contributions for chronic disease support to Sarawakian recipients stationed at the Lumut Base.
This official engagement highlights the governor’s appreciation for the dedication of RMN personnel and reinforces Sarawak’s support for national defence efforts. The visit also reflects the state’s recognition of the navy’s crucial role in maintaining Malaysia’s security and sovereignty.
