SINGAPORE, Jan. 5 (Xinhuanet) -- Singapore and Malaysia on Wednesday launched their 16th bilateral naval exercise in the Malacca Straits.

    The exercise, which involves six ships from the two sides, highlights the coordinated maritime surveillance in the Malacca Straits, said a joint statement by the Republic of Singapore Navy (RSN) and the Royal Malaysian Navy (RMN).

    Code-named "Exercise Malapura," the exercise provides a valuable opportunity for all participants to foster mutual understanding and to enhance the relationship between the two navies, the statement said.

    Hosted by the RSN this year, the exercise will last until Jan. 14. Enditem