MALAYSIA will not follow other countries in significantly increasing military spending as its defence doctrine is focused on protecting national sovereignty rather than launching attacks against other nations, says Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
The Defence Minister said Malaysia respects the decisions of other countries to increase their defence budgets but would determine its own military expenditure based on needs and financial capabilities.
He stressed that Malaysia remains independent and neutral in its defence policy, and will not allow itself to be dictated to by major powers.
“Some countries have suggested that we increase our defence spending to 5% of our GNP (gross national product).
“The intention is for these major powers to have us at the forefront when confrontations, conflicts or wars break out.
“But we want to make it clear that we are not puppets of any major power. We are independent and neutral,” he said in response to a supplementary question from William Leong (PH-Selayang) on the implications of rising military expenditure among East Asian countries, particularly the potential for conflict in the region and its impact on maritime security and trade routes such as the Strait of Malacca.
He said Malaysia’s defence priorities differed from those of countries acquiring long-range offensive military capabilities.
“Our defence doctrine is to defend the country, not to attack other countries. If we look at some countries, they may purchase missiles with ranges of 2,000km to 3,000km.
“We do not need those because we have no intention of attacking other countries. Our doctrine is to defend our country,” he said, adding that Malaysia will continue strengthening its defence capabilities through credible deterrence.
Khaled acknowledged that increased military spending by neighbouring countries could heighten the risk of misunderstandings, disputes and military confrontations.
He warned that any conflict in the region would inevitably affect Malaysia and other countries, including their economic and security interests.
However, he said Malaysia could not prevent other countries from increasing their defence expenditure.
“We respect the actions of every country and do not interfere in such matters,” he said, while reiterating that Malaysia will continue taking appropriate measures within its financial means to safeguard its sovereignty, regardless of the military spending decisions of other countries.
