What legacy does KD Mutiara leave after 41 years?

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KD Mutiara leaves a significant legacy of maritime data collection and service to the Royal Malaysian Navy.

After 41 years of dedicated service, KD Mutiara, the Royal Malaysian Navy's first locally built hydrographic ship, has been decommissioned, leaving behind a substantial contribution to Malaysia's maritime knowledge and operational capabilities. Commissioned on December 18, 1977, the vessel was instrumental in surveying vast areas of Malaysian waters, with its collected data leading to the publication of crucial navigational resources.
Extensive Hydrographic Data Collection

Throughout its operational life, KD Mutiara completed 146 hydrographic orders, meticulously surveying 68,598 square kilometers within Malaysian waters. This extensive data collection effort directly resulted in the publication of 51 Nautical Charts and 52 Electronic Signage Chart Cells, vital tools for safe navigation and maritime activities in the region. The ship's operational reach was considerable, having cruised approximately 223,167.43 kilometers, a distance equivalent to circumnavigating the globe six times.
Technological Capabilities and Operational Scope

Designed specifically for hydrographic measurement and oceanography studies in tropical environments, KD Mutiara was equipped to operate autonomously for up to 30 days at sea. It possessed a cruising range of 4,500 nautical miles at a speed of 16 knots, enabling extensive survey missions. Beyond its primary hydrographic role, the ship also demonstrated its versatility by participating in various search and rescue operations, notably including the mission to locate the MH370 flight.
Transition to Modern Solutions

The decommissioning of KD Mutiara, built at a cost of RM35 million by Hong Leong-Lurssen Shipyard Berhad, was attributed to its outdated technology and declining operational efficiency. In its place, the Royal Malaysian Navy has engaged a private company since November 2016 to handle hydrographic measurements, a move that offers enhanced operational capacity, with the rented vessel capable of operating 300 days a year and covering extensive survey areas while achieving significant cost savings. The RMN is currently exploring options for the disposal of KD Mutiara, aiming to secure a favorable return, with several interested parties having already expressed their intent.

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What legacy does KD Mutiara leave after 41 years?

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