In a statement issued on social media, the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN) said it was the first time any Iranian naval assets had arrived in Malaysia.

The two vessels, which were said to be here on an operational visit, are the auxiliary-type Iris Shahid Mahdavi and the frigate-class Irins Dena.

RMN human resource development director Erman Shahril Adlan led a delegation from the Malaysian navy in welcoming the arrival of the two Iranian vessels.

Iranian ambassador Valiollah Mohammadi Nasrabadi was also present.

Later, Erman and the Malaysian delegation toured both ships and met with their officers and crew.

“This visit represents a historic milestone, establishing a foundation to strengthen future bilateral relations between RMN and the Iranian navy,” the statement added.