Naval chief discusses coordinated responses to maritime security challenges with Malaysian navy leadership

Published February 8, 2026
Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf and the Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, Admiral Tan Sri (Dr.) Zulhelmy bin Ithnain. — Photo via ISPR
Chief of Naval Staff, Admiral Naveed Ashraf and the Chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, Admiral Tan Sri (Dr.) Zulhelmy bin Ithnain. — Photo via ISPR

Pakistan’s naval chief has held discussions on aligning strategic perspectives and coordinated responses to maritime security challenges with the leadership of the Malaysian navy during an official visit to the southeast Asian country, the military’s media affairs wing said on Sunday.

“Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf paid an official visit to Malaysia and called on the leadership of the Royal Malaysian Navy. He was received at Royal Malaysian Navy Headquarters by Admiral Tan Sri Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, chief of the Royal Malaysian Navy, and was accorded a Guard of Honour,” a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations said.

It added that Admiral Asharf’s discussions during the visit focused on “aligning strategic perspectives and enhancing operational cooperation, capacity building, and coordinated responses to maritime security challenges”.

“Admiral Naveed Ashraf highlighted Pakistan Navy’s contributions to regional stability through Regional Maritime Security Patrols (RMSP) and participation in the Combined Maritime Forces (CMF),” the statement said.

During the visit, the naval chief “also visited Malaysia’s National Hydrographic Centre, emphasising strengthened cooperation with Pakistan’s National Hydrographic Office in training, data exchange, and professional collaboration.”

“The visit reaffirmed the enduring Pakistan-Malaysia naval partnership and commitment to future-oriented maritime cooperation,” the statement said.

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