LANGKAWI: Three F/A-18D Hornet and three Sukhoi SU-30MKM fighter jets soared over the skies here with a spectacular aerial display.
Then, tactical divers from the navy and police parachuted from an aircraft to a stage to hand a black box to the Prime Minister.
Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim then activated a slot card in the box – and the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima ‘25) was under way.
The 17th edition saw a spectacular start with aerial displays by the Royal Malaysian Air Force at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre and a tactical sea demonstration by the navy.
Thousands, including local and foreign delegates, came to witness the event, according to Bernama.
After the opening act by the Hornets and the Sukhoi, there was a formation and aerobatic air show involving all 25 aerial assets, including six Pilatus PC-7 MK II training aircraft, two A400M transport aircraft, three C130H aircraft and eight helicopters of various types.
This was followed by a demonstration of tactical manoeuvres involving boats and jet skis from various maritime enforcement agencies.
Another highlight was a coordinated inter-agency maritime capability demonstration, with inter-agency coordinated “hostage rescue operation” that showcased the combined expertise of the nation’s security forces.
The final segment featured a fly-past and sail-past, where aircraft and vessels involved in the demonstration performed a ceremonial pass in front of the main stage, saluting the dignitaries in attendance.
The Prime Minister then took part in the fleet review of Lima’25, a naval tradition practised around the world involving the inspection of ships at sea.
This year’s Lima marks a significant national agenda as part of the government’s strategic commitment to position Malaysia as a global hub for maritime and aerospace industries.
This year’s event brings together 860 exhibitors from 24 countries, with 426 international and 434 local companies.
The five-day exhibition, which ends on Saturday, is themed “Today’s Innovation, Tomorrow’s Achievements”.
Lima remains one of the largest maritime and aerospace exhibitions in South-East Asia since its inception in 1991.
