USS Abraham Lincoln Makes Historic Return to Port Klang, Malaysia After 12 Years

In a significant demonstration of international collaboration, the USS Abraham Lincoln has arrived in Malaysia, marking the first visit by a U.S. aircraft carrier since 2012. This visit reflects the enduring partnership between the United States and Malaysia, rooted deeply in economic, security, and people-to-people exchanges.

“This historic visit reaffirms Malaysia’s importance to the United States,” expressed U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard D. Kagan. He emphasized the shared dedication to maintaining regional stability and safeguarding Malaysian sovereignty, while also creating avenues for cooperative efforts between the naval forces and key national figures.

Before docking in Port Klang, the Abraham Lincoln hosted a group of distinguished Malaysian visitors, allowing them to tour the vessel, observe flight operations, and interact with U.S. Navy personnel. Such initiatives aim to bolster the bilateral ties through direct engagement with Malaysian leaders during exclusive tours.

Rear Adm. Adan Cruz, commander of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 3, noted the significance of this visit. “Our sojourn to Kuala Lumpur is monumental for the U.S. Navy, being the first in twelve years,” he stated, underscoring the yearning to fortify the U.S.-Malaysia relationship and provide a cultural exchange for the service members onboard.

With more than 4,200 Sailors and Marines aboard, the crew is set to explore Malaysia’s cultural and historical richness. They are slated to partake in local tours and community relations projects, which include volunteering efforts at area soup kitchens and homes for senior citizens and children.

Capt. Pete Riebe, commanding officer of the USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72), extended his gratitude for the warm welcome received in Port Klang and Kuala Lumpur. “We eagerly anticipate engaging with the local community and hosting Malaysian Navy and government officials aboard while in port,” he remarked, emphasizing the mutual learning opportunities.

The Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group is a robust formation including the USS Abraham Lincoln, Carrier Strike Group (CSG) Three, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 21, Carrier Air Wing (CVW) Nine, and several integrated destroyers, showcasing the strategic flexibility and readiness of a carrier strike group.

The group has been active in neighboring Southeast Asian nations; USS Frank E. Petersen Jr. recently visited Singapore, while USS Spruance and USS Michael Murphy were docked in Thailand. Such maneuvers illustrate the adaptable nature of the group’s operations.

The CVW-9 is composed of over 70 diverse aircraft, including helicopter squadrons and fighter jets, providing extensive support and advancing regional maritime security. As the Abraham Lincoln Carrier Strike Group continues operations in the U.S. 7th Fleet area, it reaffirms the U.S. commitment to a free and open Indo-Pacific region through strategic partnerships and stability efforts.