The Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2012

U.S. Marines assigned to 1st and 2nd platoon, Fox Company and Malaysian soldiers listen to advice given by Brig. Gen. Tengku Ahmad Noor Bin Tuan Chik, commander of the 10 Paratrooper Brigade of the Malaysian Army. (U.S. Embassy photo)

Chief Explosive Ordnance Disposal Technician Stephen Andrews demonstrates how to use the "Pacbot" operation control unit to members of the Royal Malaysian Navy. (U.S. Embassy photo)

The Cooperation Afloat Readiness and Training (CARAT) Malaysia 2012 began on June 15 at the Malaysian Royal Navy base in Lumut, Perak. CARAT is a series of bilateral military exercises between the U.S. Pacific Fleet and Malaysian Royal Navy. The exercise is held annually with the aim of bolstering regional cooperation, building friendships, and strengthening professional skills among the armed forces. This year, the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Waesche (WMSL-751) made an appearance for CARAT. Ambassador Paul Jones, Major General Abu Bakar, Admiral Anuwi, and Admiral Carney were among distinguished guests who attended the reception aboard the ship.

Over the next several days, Malaysian and American personnel exchanged knowledge, shared camaraderie and participated in a series of military exercises that included explosive ordnance disposal training, demolition techniques, military ambush exercises, facility damage control simulation and more. American personnel performing Community Service (COMMSERV) also took time to help out at Haruman Kasih Pertubuhan Charity House in Sitiawan. The U.S. Navy 7th Fleet Band ‘Orient Express’ also sang for the locals and taught school students musical  techniques on various instruments.