US offer of assistance to Asean must be based on ADMM framework

KUALA LUMPUR: The United States' offer of cooperation to Asean must be based on the Asean Defence Ministers Meeting (ADMM) framework and the regional bloc centrality, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

The Defence Minister said US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth had been forthcoming in offering assistance to Asean to overcome challenges, including at the South China Sea.

"We acknowledge the offer but stress that such cooperation must be based on the ADMM framework, Asean centrality and unwavering commitment towards peace and prosperity in the region," he told reporters after the ADMM-Plus and Asean-US Defence Ministers' High-Tea on Saturday (Nov 1).

During the high tea, Mohamed Khaled said Hegseth had reiterated the United States' stand that peace would not be obtained without strength.

"He stated that the United States is part of Pacific nations and will always play its part to support Asean's efforts to maintain peace and prosperity in the region," he said.

On Hegseth's invitation for him to visit the Pentagon, Mohamed Khaled said it is likely aimed at discussing various aspects of defence cooperation between Malaysia and the United States.

He said that this includes capacity-building programmes and collaboration in defence procurement.

He added that among the matters expected to be discussed is the need to obtain US approval for certain components in Malaysia’s FA-50 fighter jets and maritime patrol aircraft (MPA) to ensure the timely delivery of the assets.

“The visit to the Pentagon will also provide Malaysia the opportunity to observe firsthand the United States' capability in maritime domain awareness, which enables the detection of activities across regional waters.

“The United States' strength lies, among others, in its ability to monitor maritime areas. We can explore how such information could be shared and utilised for the security of our nation,” he said.

Mohamed Khaled clarified that the invitation was made by the United States, not at his own request, and that his participation will depend on the approval of the Malaysian Cabinet.

Hegseth, in a post on social media platform X on Friday (Oct 31), said he looked forward to welcoming Mohamed Khaled to the Pentagon in 2026.