U.S. Vows to Strengthen Defense Ties with Malaysia

The United States is committed to further enhancing its close defense ties with Malaysia, a sentiment conveyed by U.S. Ambassador to ASEAN, Kevin Kim, during a courtesy call in Kuala Lumpur. Malaysian Defense Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin reported that the ambassador emphasized the U.S. intention to continuously improve and strengthen the bilateral relationship, particularly within the defense sector.

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They expressed their intention to continue focusing on improving and strengthening the close relationship between the two countries, including in the defense sector.

This exchange took place during the 37th annual MILOPS Conference, hosted in Kuala Lumpur from August 3 to 6. The conference convenes government officials and military representatives from over 30 nations to deliberate on regional security challenges and foster cooperation in military law and operations.

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The defense sector plays an important role in supporting ASEAN's goals and enhancing cooperation among member states.

Minister Mohamed Khaled clarified that the meeting with Ambassador Kim focused solely on reinforcing existing ties and did not involve discussions on policy matters. He also held separate meetings with ASEAN Secretary-General Dr. Kao Kim Hourn and Singapore's Permanent Secretary of Defence, Joseph Leong. Discussions with Dr. Kao Kim Hourn centered on ASEAN's challenges and the role of the defense sector in upholding regional priorities, peace, stability, and prosperity. The meeting with Mr. Leong affirmed Singapore's commitment to deepening its defense cooperation with Malaysia, encompassing bilateral, multilateral ASEAN-level, and Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) initiatives.

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This cooperation not only involves bilateral relations but also multilateral cooperation at the ASEAN level and through the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA).