KUALA LUMPUR: A new defence cooperation agreement between Malaysia and the United States will strengthen bilateral relations and enhance regional security, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said the agreement marked the first structured and formal framework of cooperation between the two nations in the field of defence.
“Previously, our cooperation was conducted on a more ad-hoc basis through joint exercises, officer exchanges, and participation in US support programmes to boost national defence capacity,” he told reporters following a bilateral meeting with US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, where the agreement was signed.
The meeting took place on the sidelines of the Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus.
“With this formal agreement, we can now coordinate and implement activities in a more organised and effective manner, ensuring they meet Malaysia’s strategic needs,” he added.
Mohamed Khaled explained that defence diplomacy plays a vital role in strengthening Malaysia’s security posture, complementing the government’s allocations for procurement and military readiness.
“Some may misinterpret this as Malaysia receiving aid or charity. That is not the case. This is part of defence diplomacy, where collaboration with other nations helps enhance our capabilities,” he said.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining strong diplomatic channels with all partners to ensure regional stability.
“Asean continues to convey its message clearly – that the region must remain peaceful, secure, and free from any threats that could disrupt stability,” he said.
Formal partnership: Mohamed Khaled (left)shaking hands with Hegseth on the sidelines of ADMM and ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur. — RAJA FAISAL HISHAN/The Star
Asked if Malaysia is concerned about signing its first formal defence agreement with the United States, the minister said that such collaborations are common, and form part of Malaysia’s balanced approach to international relations.
On ADMM, Mohamed Khaled said 20 key agenda points will be highlighted in the discussions, including the endorsement of a regional disaster response protocol, joint maritime exercises with partner nations, and a landmark statement on artificial intelligence (AI) in defence.
“One of the highlights will be the formalisation of the Asean Observer Team, which will be deployed to monitor and facilitate the ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia under the recently signed KL Peace Accord,” he said.
“The meetings will also endorse standard operating procedures for the Asean Military Ready Group, which will now form part of the region’s disaster management framework.
“This initiative aims to ensure faster coordination and more effective responses among member states during humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
“Another key highlight is the adoption of the first Joint Statement on Cooperation in the Field of Artificial Intelligence in Defence, underscoring Asean’s collective commitment to approach AI responsibly, balancing innovation with accountability,” he added.
