ISLAMABAD: Pakistan Navy Chief of Naval Staff Admiral Naveed Ashraf met with his Malaysian counterpart, Admiral Tan Sri Zulhelmy bin Ithnain, on Sunday during an official visit to Malaysia aimed at enhancing cooperative maritime security and naval diplomacy.

Discussions between the two naval leaders at Royal Malaysian Navy Headquarters focused on aligning strategic goals amid a complex maritime landscape, according to a press release issued by Pak Navy’s Directorate General Public Relations.

They explored avenues for increased operational collaboration, capacity building, and coordinated responses to emerging maritime security threats.

Admiral Ashraf highlighted the Pakistan Navy’s commitment to regional stability, demonstrated by its continuous Regional Maritime Security Patrols and active participation in the Combined Maritime Forces. These efforts, he said, reinforce Pakistan’s position as a responsible maritime player.

Admiral Ashraf also toured Mal­aysia’s National Hydrographic Centre (NHC) where he was brie­fed on its technical capabilities and contributions to maritime safety.

He emphasised the importance of hydrography for effective naval operations and proposed fostering stronger ties between Malaysia’s NHC and Pakistan’s National Hydr­ographic Office. This would include specialised training, data exch­a­nge, and professional collaboration. The visit reinforced the long-standing relationship between the Pakistani and Malaysian navies, rooted in shared values and mutual respect.

Published in Dawn, February 9th, 2026