TLDM Open Day 2010

This is a bit late. Somewhere on June 2010 the Tentera Laut Diraja Malaysia (TLDM or Royal Malaysian Navy) organised an open day for the public at Teluk Sepanggar, Sabah. It was a rare opportunity that couldn’t simply be turned down by anyone. You know how hard it is getting into any military base in the world without getting shot at.

So on a sunny Saturday I made my way to Teluk Sepanggar for a close up with Malaysia’s guardians of the sea.



Centre of attraction for they day is without doubt the KD Kedah, an OPV and the biggest ship in Teluk Sepanggar's line up.



On board KD Kedah with the forward or bow part of the ship and the turret of 76mm 62cal OTO Melara DP gun.



Apart from the big OPV, there are several Fast Attack Vessels. Fast enough I guess to catch the attention of the girl in pink.



Here is a close up of one of the gun on the Fast Attack Vessel, KD Ganas.



All the ships fly various kind of flags that stand for some naval codes, totally beyond my comprehension.



It means, "Danger Turret Rotates Without Warning".



On several section of the ship there are placements for weapons like GPMG.



The navy offer the public a ride on their patrol boats for a reasonable fee. Rare opportunity to enjoy they bay area of the base.



Also on display, some of the naval gadgets. Scuba suits and a Starbust SAM at the background.



All in all, it was a great experience despite the scorching sun. Too bad the Scorpene submarines are off limit!