KUALA LUMPUR: The 19th Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) ended with a strong call for unity, solidarity and a continued commitment to regional peace and stability.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said he was both grateful for and proud of the achievements made under Malaysia's Asean chairmanship, describing the year as one of the most productive and ambitious in the ADMM’s history.
"Together, we have approved the largest number of initiatives ever achieved in a single year," he said in his closing remarks for the ADMM here on Friday (Oct 31).
ALSO READ: Malaysia calls for stronger cyber defence at ADMM
Among the key achievements were the Joint Statement on the Implementation of the Asean Political-Security Community Strategic Plan under the Asean Community Vision 2045 and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration on Asean Unity for Security and Prosperity.
"These documents are living proof of our shared commitment to a peaceful, stable and forward-looking Asean.
"The ADMM is not merely a formal platform, but a vibrant community of purpose and progress," he noted.
Throughout the discussions, one clear message emerged – that Asean’s strength lies not in power or dominance, but in partnership and dialogue, Khaled said.
"It is this spirit of cooperation over competition, of solidarity over separation, that keeps our region stable and our future secure," he said, urging members to continue embracing the Asean First principle.
ALSO READ: Malaysia, US sign defence MoU, renew accords following talks
"Let us think Asean, act Asean and behave Asean, for this is our home and our shared responsibility," he said.
Khaled also underscored the importance of building bridges of trust between militaries, institutions and peoples, noting that peace "is never automatic as it must be actively built, protected, and renewed, together as one Asean family."
As the ministers prepare for the 12th ADMM-Plus on Saturday (Nov 1), he called on member countries to carry forward the same spirit of unity and cooperation.
"United in purpose, confident in our mission, and guided by our shared responsibility, we must keep this region peaceful, stable and secure.
"May our unity and solidarity remain our strength and our shield as we move forward together for security and prosperity. Let our compass remain clear and strong: Asean First. Regional Solidarity Always," he said.
