Navy Open Day Draws Over 5,000 Visitors, Boosts Labuan Tourism Appeal

LABUAN, April 19 (Bernama) -- More than 5,000 visitors from Labuan, Sabah, Sarawak and Brunei thronged the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) Open Day held aboard three navy vessels here, marking the first time such an event was organised on the duty-free island.

A RMN Labuan spokesman said the programme held in conjunction with the 92nd anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Navy received an overwhelming response, particularly on the final day today, with over 3,000 visitors making their way as early as 7am to the designated pick-up point at Dataran Labuan.

In total, more than 1,960 visitors comprising children, youths and senior citizens were recorded boarding the vessels today, reflecting strong public interest in maritime defence assets and naval operations.

Prior to their arrival in Labuan, the vessels had been involved in exercises around the Spratly Islands, underscoring the navy’s operational readiness and continued presence in safeguarding Malaysia’s maritime interests in the South China Sea.

The open day provided rare public access to RMN ships, allowing visitors to explore onboard facilities, view operational equipment and engage with navy personnel, while also fostering greater awareness of the navy’s role in national defence.

Labuan Corporation (LC) chief executive officer Rithuan Ismail said the presence of the navy vessels in Labuan underscored the island’s continued appeal as a destination for both official visits and tourism-related activities.

“The arrival of these vessels augurs well for the tourism sector and brings positive economic spillover to the island, particularly for local businesses in hospitality, transport and retail,” he told Bernama after making the visit to the vessels today.

Rithuan added that such events complemented ongoing efforts to position Labuan as a vibrant and attractive destination in line with its development agenda.

Meanwhile, Megah Port Management Sdn Bhd managing director Datuk Seri Patrick Tiong said the port operator had facilitated the safe berthing and logistical arrangements for the navy vessels throughout the programme.

He said the successful hosting of the event demonstrated the capability of Labuan Port in handling a range of maritime activities, including defence-related visits and large-scale public engagements.

The open day also featured interactive sessions, safety demonstrations and educational briefings, making it both an informative and family-friendly event.

The strong turnout is seen as a positive indicator of public support for defence institutions, while reinforcing Labuan’s role not only as Malaysia’s international business and financial centre, but also as a strategic maritime hub in the region.

-- BERNAMA