Malaysian PM Anwar at Asia Defence Expo: Neutrality Advantage Helps Reshape Supply Chains
At the opening of the 2026 Malaysia Asia Defence Exhibition and Asia National Security Exhibition (DSA/NATSEC Asia), Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim stressed that global defense and aerospace companies should leverage Malaysia's neutral and high-precision manufacturing base to reshape supply chains amid geopolitical tensions.
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(Central News Agency, Kuala Lumpur) The 2026 Malaysia Asia Defence Exhibition (DSA) and the 4th Asia National Security Exhibition (NATSEC Asia) opened today. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized that global defense and aerospace companies should leverage Malaysia's neutral and high-precision manufacturing base to address geopolitical tensions and continue reshaping global supply chains.
The 19th DSA and 4th NATSEC Asia, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from today for four days, provide a platform for exchange and cooperation in defense and security fields for various countries.
Anwar Ibrahim, in his speech, mentioned the complex global geopolitical situation and Malaysia's adherence to an active non-aligned policy, maintaining cooperative relationships with all major partners. He noted that when Malaysian suppliers enter the supply chain, they do not bring political factors that complicate procurement decisions. In the current environment, this is an important commercial consideration.
He believes that the defense industry system that Malaysia is committed to building will enable companies to secure a stable position in the international supply chain through their own strength.
Anwar also stated that geopolitical dynamics are profoundly reshaping global supply chain decisions. The conflicts in the Middle East have impacted global markets, leading to rising energy prices and capital outflow from some markets. Malaysia will continue to promote policy reforms and maintain close interaction with businesses and asset management institutions.
Amidst changes in global supply chains and security situations, this year's exhibition, themed "Enhancing Capabilities and Resilience through Technology," highlights the common trend of countries strengthening defense modernization and technological applications as security challenges escalate.
Government and industry representatives will promote security and policy priorities through multilateral exchanges and market cooperation in high-level forums.
Prior to the exhibition's opening, Defense Minister Khaled Nordin inspected the venue and stated that the Asia Defence Exhibition not only showcases the latest and most advanced defense and security technologies globally but also carries strategic significance, providing a neutral platform for countries to strengthen mutual relations through defense diplomacy and constructive exchanges.
The organizers announced that this year, 1,456 defense industry players from 63 countries are exhibiting, with approximately 500 representatives from 40 countries attending.
Following Singapore's airshow held in February, Malaysia's biennial Asia Defence Exhibition also garnered high attention from Southeast Asian, European, and American countries, and is considered one of Asia's largest and most well-organized defense and homeland security exhibitions, showcasing the most advanced technologies, systems, hardware, and electronic warfare capabilities in the military industry. This defense exhibition was first held in 1988. (Editor: Chen Huiping) 1150420
The 19th DSA and 4th NATSEC Asia, held at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) from today for four days, provide a platform for exchange and cooperation in defense and security fields for various countries.
Anwar Ibrahim, in his speech, mentioned the complex global geopolitical situation and Malaysia's adherence to an active non-aligned policy, maintaining cooperative relationships with all major partners. He noted that when Malaysian suppliers enter the supply chain, they do not bring political factors that complicate procurement decisions. In the current environment, this is an important commercial consideration.
He believes that the defense industry system that Malaysia is committed to building will enable companies to secure a stable position in the international supply chain through their own strength.
Anwar also stated that geopolitical dynamics are profoundly reshaping global supply chain decisions. The conflicts in the Middle East have impacted global markets, leading to rising energy prices and capital outflow from some markets. Malaysia will continue to promote policy reforms and maintain close interaction with businesses and asset management institutions.
Amidst changes in global supply chains and security situations, this year's exhibition, themed "Enhancing Capabilities and Resilience through Technology," highlights the common trend of countries strengthening defense modernization and technological applications as security challenges escalate.
Government and industry representatives will promote security and policy priorities through multilateral exchanges and market cooperation in high-level forums.
Prior to the exhibition's opening, Defense Minister Khaled Nordin inspected the venue and stated that the Asia Defence Exhibition not only showcases the latest and most advanced defense and security technologies globally but also carries strategic significance, providing a neutral platform for countries to strengthen mutual relations through defense diplomacy and constructive exchanges.
The organizers announced that this year, 1,456 defense industry players from 63 countries are exhibiting, with approximately 500 representatives from 40 countries attending.
Following Singapore's airshow held in February, Malaysia's biennial Asia Defence Exhibition also garnered high attention from Southeast Asian, European, and American countries, and is considered one of Asia's largest and most well-organized defense and homeland security exhibitions, showcasing the most advanced technologies, systems, hardware, and electronic warfare capabilities in the military industry. This defense exhibition was first held in 1988. (Editor: Chen Huiping) 1150420