In February 1942, Murakumo was part of the escort for the heavy cruiser  during Operation L, the invasion of Banka-Palembang and Anambas Islands. Murakumo joined the Western Java invasion force, and was in the Battle of Sunda Strait on 1 March, assisting in the sinking of the Australian cruiser , the American cruiser  and the  Dutch destroyer .
In February 1942, Murakumo participated as a escort vessel for the heavy battleship  during Operation L, which involved the invasion of Banka-Palembang and Anambas Islands. Later that month, Murakumo joined forces with the Western Java invasion fleet and played a role in the Battle of Sunda Strait on March 1, contributing to the sinking of the Australian cruiser , the American cruiser  and the Dutch destroyer .