Lumut: The Coastal Combat Ship (LCS 1) KD Maharaja Lela, which was displayed for the first time to the public, was among the highlights at the 2026 Fleet Open Day (HTA), in conjunction with the 92nd Anniversary of the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN), here.

A Bernama survey found that on average, visitors expressed excitement and pride when they had the opportunity to see RMN assets up close.

A visitor from Kulim, Kedah, Mohamad Asraf Ishak, 38, said that HTA 2026 provided a very meaningful experience, especially for young people, to understand the role of the RMN in maintaining the security and sovereignty of the country's waters.

"So far, we have only seen warships, helicopters and RMN assets on television or social media. So when I came to HTA 2026, I was able to see for myself the actual size of the ships, defense equipment and RMN personnel carrying out their duties.

"The most interesting thing is of course seeing LCS 1 which is our pride. I think the people need to be given more opportunities like this so that they can better appreciate the sacrifices of military personnel and understand the importance of national defence," he said when met by Bernama at HTA 2026 here, today.

Earlier, the Raja Muda of Perak Raja Jaafar Raja Muda Musa agreed to officiate the Lumut Navy City Parade at Dataran Lumut.

Apart from the parade, the celebration which started today until Sunday was also enlivened by the organisation of HTA 2026 at the Lumut Pier, Lumut TLDM Base, which gave visitors the opportunity to see various assets more closely and understand the role of the RMN.

Civil servant, Norsuhaila Mohd Yunus, 23, said she was excited to be able to see various modern RMN assets including weapons systems and maritime technology.

"As the younger generation, I think programmes like this are very important because it opens our eyes to the functions, responsibilities and sophistication of RMN assets. Even though I can only take pictures with the KD Maharaja Lela in the background, I am still proud," she said.

She said HTA 2026 also helps increase the interest of young people in the field of national defence and security as well as career opportunities in the military.

Nurdini Munirah Ahmad Munif, 30, from Sabak Bernam said she and her friends who are interested in the military world continue to plan to attend after learning about the organisation of HTA 2026.

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