China and Malaysia’s first-ever joint military exercise is an important strategic move

MALAYSIA is in a pivotal position, located midway between two key oceans – the Indian and Pacific. The Strait of Malacca (SOM) is the front yard of Malaysia’s security and is a vital maritime security artery for the country, especially for the movement of naval vessels from the Royal Malaysian Navy’s principal base in Lumut to other parts of the country.

The National Defence Policy of Malaysia 2010 demarcates the strait, including its entrance and exit, as geographical areas of Malaysia’s vital interests.

Expert interprets China-Malaysia military exercise at Malacca Strait

BEIJING, September 14 (ChinaMil) -- China will assign three naval warships, seven warplanes and 1,160 troops from the Army, Navy and Air Force of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) to participate in the first joint military exercise with Malaysia. Since it will be carried out near the strategic waterway of Malacca Strait, the exercise has triggered many speculations and analysis.

Several Chinese military experts elaborated on the background and purpose of this joint military exercise on September 13. They also denied those groundless speculations.

Chinese navy fleets leave for China-Malaysia military drill

SANYA, Sept. 12 (Xinhua) -- Chinese navy fleets on Saturday left a port in Sanya in south China's Hainan Province for a military exercise jointly held by China and Malaysia.

The drill, coded "Peace and Friendship 2015," is scheduled to be held from September 17 to 22 in the Malacca Strait and surrounding waters.

It will include exercises for joint escort, joint search and rescue, hijacked vessel rescue, weapons use, humanitarian rescue and disaster relief.