The USS Blue Ridge docked in Port Klang, strengthening Malaysia-US relations

KLANG: The arrival of the US Navy ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC19) in Port Klang on Wednesday signifies the commitment of the United States in strengthening bilateral relations with Malaysia.
According to the Commanding Officer of the Seventh Fleet, Captain Nicholas C. DeLeo, the aspect that will be strengthened is the military and maritime security that has been intertwined with Malaysia since 1957.

Among other things that will be focused on in conjunction with the visit is the eradication of terrorist activities and regional security.

He also said that Malaysia is a key strategic partner in the region and several opportunities will be explored for sharing information with the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN).

“The members are really looking forward to this visit because apart from food, the other side (Malaysia) can be explored.

“During this visit we will also organize some sporting activities such as volleyball and football matches.

“This ongoing cooperation is very important and significant for both countries in further strengthening the existing diplomatic relations,” he said during the tour of the Seventh Fleet ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) with media practitioners at the Port of Klang Cruise Terminal (PKCT) today.

The aircraft carrier piloted by its Commander, Deputy Admiral Fred Kacher docked at the wharf at approximately 9.30am and was welcomed by the Inspector General of the Indonesian Navy, Rear Admiral Abdullah Sani Ismail along with a team of officers and members.

Meanwhile, one of the members, Ensign Eric Ding also shared his excitement to interact with Malaysians.

He also shared his personal experience in the navy which is said to have greatly changed his character as an individual.

“For me life as a member of the navy is synonymous with my tenacious nature in seeking knowledge.

“This is because in the navy, it involves intellectual aspects in addition to requiring physical strength and motivation.

“It involves various challenges such as the ability to think to solve problems and ensure the condition of the ship is always at a safe level,” he said.

This is the ship’s second visit after docking in Kota Kinabalu in 2019.

Commissioned in 1970, the ship is the second oldest US Navy ship after the USS Constitution.

The ship’s role, among others, is to ensure that relations with the United States’ allied countries are strengthened through a series of port visits.