SANDAKAN: About 20,000 visitors are expected at the three-day Royal Malaysian Navy Mawilla 2 Open Day in Sandakan, up from 15,000 last year.
The programme aims to strengthen ties with the public while showcasing the Navy’s role, capabilities and assets in safeguarding Malaysia’s waters, said Western Fleet Region 2 Commander Rear Admiral Ivan Mario Andrew.
The event, officiated by Eastern Fleet Commander Vice Admiral Khir Junaid Idris, featured a crowd-catching VIP hostage rescue demonstration involving naval and air assets.
Other highlights included ship visits, weapons and asset displays, tactical demos, band performances, career exhibitions, government agency booths and local vendor sales.
The programme also promotes patriotism, maritime awareness and closer engagement between RMN personnel and the community.
