Indian Navy Survey Ship Makes First-Ever Visit To Malaysia For Hydrographic Mission

Indian Naval Ship (INS) Sandhayak, India’s newly commissioned hydrographic survey vessel, made its first-ever visit to Malaysia from July 16 to 19, 2025, as part of a hydrographic cooperation mission. The ship docked at Port Klang, where it was warmly welcomed by the Royal Malaysian Navy.

The four-day visit included a number of professional, cultural, and goodwill activities between the two navies, aimed at boosting maritime collaboration.

As per the Indian High Commission in Kuala Lumpur, INS Sandhayak’s crew participated in several engagements such as visits to the National Hydrographic Centre, subject matter expert interactions, sports activities, and cross visits by naval personnel from both sides.

Additionally, the programme included visits by school students and an onboard reception to build public and institutional connections.

INS Sandhayak is the first vessel of the Sandhayak-class Survey Vessel (Large) series and was commissioned into the Indian Navy on February 3, 2024, at the Naval Dockyard in Visakhapatnam in the presence of Defence Minister Rajnath Singh.

Built in India, the vessel is equipped with advanced systems for full-scale coastal and deep-sea hydrographic surveys, oceanographic data collection, and search and rescue (SAR) operations. It also supports humanitarian missions with a helicopter deck and onboard hospital facilities, making it a multi-purpose asset for the Indian Navy.

According to a statement from the Indian Ministry of Defence, the visit to Port Klang was focused on technical cooperation, sharing of hydrographic technologies, and sustained support between the Indian and Malaysian hydrographic departments. The ministry added that this visit plays a key role in strengthening institutional ties and expanding regional maritime cooperation.

This mission is also part of India’s wider MAHASAGAR vision, which stands for Mutual and Holistic Advancement for Security and Growth Across Regions. The initiative aims to improve regional security through shared maritime efforts.

As per naval officials, key events during the port call included knowledge-exchange sessions, official receptions, and public engagements aimed at fostering goodwill and raising awareness about this vision.

The Indian Navy stated that the ship’s maiden visit to Malaysia shows India’s increasing role in hydrographic capacity building in the region, carried out under the Indian Naval Hydrographic Department (INHD) and National Hydrographic Office.

Over the years, India-Malaysia defence ties have grown steadily, with regular military training, equipment exchanges, and participation in major defence events like Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) and Defence Services Asia (DSA). Indian Navy ships frequently make port calls to Malaysia, creating opportunities for interaction and collaboration.

References: The Hindu, abplive

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