US Coast Guard's Legend-class vessel docks in Port Klang

KLANG: The Bertholf vessel of the United States Coast Guard has made its inaugural stop at Port Klang, marking a significant moment for the crew as they embark on a mission to strengthen ties with regional counterparts.

Speaking on board the ship, Capt William L. Mees, the commanding officer, emphasized the importance of building a more stable, free, open, and resilient Indo-Pacific region through collaboration with the Malaysia Maritime Enforcement Agency (MMEA).

He highlighted the partnership with the MMEA as a means to enhance maritime capabilities, promote global maritime governance, and uphold the rules of law at sea through professional exchanges and information-sharing.

Members of the press were warmly welcomed on Friday as Capt Mees and his crew provided them with a tour of the Bertholf, the first Legend-class maritime security cutter in the US Coast Guard fleet.

Measuring 127m in length and powered by two diesel engines and a gas turbine, the ship was named after Commodore Ellsworth Price Bertholf, a prominent figure in the Coast Guard’s history.

Expressing their excitement about being in Malaysia, Capt Mees mentioned their eagerness to explore Kuala Lumpur and enjoy the local cuisine during their stay.

Reflecting on their journey to Klang, Capt Mees recounted the intense experience of navigating through the busy Strait of Singapore and the Strait of Malacca, surrounded by numerous vessels as large as 1,300ft.

He noted the region’s significance as a hub of global maritime commerce, emphasizing the importance of upholding professional standards and cooperation to ensure maritime security and stability.

As the Bertholf docks at Port Klang for the first time, the crew looks forward to engaging in meaningful exchanges with their Malaysian counterparts and contributing to the shared goal of a secure and prosperous maritime environment.