DILI, 26 February 2025 (TATOLI) – Malaysia’s Ministry of Defense (MINDEF) outlined six key priorities during the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat, in Batu Ferringhi, Malaysia, today.
Malaysian Defence Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin said these key defense priorities reflect both current and emerging security challenges.
The six key priorities center on leveraging Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Cyber Security in Defense; strengthening Maritime Security in the ASEAN region; establishing Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) among ASEAN member states; consolidating Defense Industry Cooperation; enhancing preparedness against Security Threats from Non-State Actors; and amplifying ASEAN Defense efforts in addressing Biosecurity Risks.
“Malaysia firmly believes that through cooperation in these critical areas, we can fortify our collective security posture and contribute to a stable and prosperous ASEAN. Our shared commitment to regional security must remain unwavering, and together, we must seize this opportunity to reinforce our unity and chart a strategic path forward,” Minister Nordin said in his opening remarks as chair of the ASEAN Defense Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat in Batu Ferringhi, Malaysia, today.
He added that the region may face security threats from non-state actors and biosecurity risks, stressing “ASEAN must enhance its preparedness and cooperation to effectively address these challenges.”
As Malaysia assumes the chairmanship of ADMM and ADMM-Plus this year, the country is proud to introduce the theme: “ASEAN Unity for Security and Prosperity.”
“In an era where security challenges are becoming more complex and transcend national borders, ASEAN’s unity and robust regional cooperation are more crucial than ever. The region faces both traditional and non-traditional security threats that no single country can tackle alone. It is imperative that we enhance our collective capacity to respond effectively and proactively to these challenges,” said Minister Nordin.
TATOLI
