KOTA KINABALU, Malaysia – The Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyer USS Milius (DDG 69) departed Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia, after a scheduled port visit, Oct. 25.
This is the first time a U.S. Navy vessel has pulled into Kota Kinabalu since 2019, with this year marking 65 years of diplomatic relations between the United States and Malaysia. Our continued partnership is dedicated towards security, peace, and a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
The port visit highlighted the strong U.S. commitment to the region built on shared values and principles and helped strengthen the relationship between the U.S. and Malaysia.
“USS Milius Sailors had a great time in Kota Kinabalu building relationships with our Malaysian partners and enjoying the local culture,” said Cmdr. Matthew Hays, commanding officer of Milius. “The crew participated in a number of recreational activities and a community relations event with a local school. We are all very fortunate to have this opportunity and hope to visit this beautiful country again in the future."
This port call gave Sailors a number of opportunities to rest and unwind on and off the ship. Sailors were granted opportunities and transportation to visit popular local establishments, such as the city itself, tourist attractions, and restaurants around Kota Kinabalu to experience and immerse themselves in the Malaysian culture as well as the landscape.
“It was a heartwarming experience to put smiles on all the children’s face during our community relations event” said Yeoman Seaman Yuri Hernandez, from Willacoochie, Georgia. “Every Sailor that volunteered had a part in making this event one that the children will not forget.”
Port calls are part of the Navy’s routine operations. They allow Sailors an opportunity to decompress from the high demand of life at sea, contributing to the overall mission readiness of the ship.
“As my first port visit during my time in the Navy it was an unforgettable one to immerse myself into the Malaysian culture and experience what it had to offer” said Electrician’s Mate 3rd Class Ryan Nguyen from San Jose, California. “This port visit is the culmination of all the hard work of the entire crew and I’m glad it happened.”
Milius departed Kota Kinabalu Oct. 25 to continue operations in support of a free and open Indo-Pacific region.
Milius is assigned to Commander, Task Force 71/Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 15, the Navy’s largest forward-deployed DESRON and the U.S. 7th Fleet’s principal surface force.
U.S. 7th Fleet is the largest forward-deployed fleet in the world, and with the help of a network of alliances and partners from 35 other maritime-nations, the U.S. Navy has operated in the Indo-Pacific region for more than 70 years, providing credible, ready forces to help preserve peace and prevent conflict.