Malaysia has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with the United States, both through bilateral partnerships and ASEAN-led mechanisms, while emphasising the importance of maintaining regional peace, stability and unity.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said Malaysia welcomes continued US engagement in Southeast Asia and appreciates Washington’s longstanding contributions to regional defence and security. He highlighted the importance of expanding cooperation through existing platforms, including the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus), which provides opportunities for joint military exercises, capacity-building initiatives and professional exchanges between armed forces.
Speaking at the ASEAN–United States Defence Ministers’ Informal Meeting in Cebu, Philippines, Mohamed Khaled expressed Malaysia’s anticipation of the proposed US–ASEAN Defence Cooperation Framework, expected to be introduced in 2027. He stressed that defence partnerships should extend beyond strengthening military capabilities to include building mutual trust, understanding and closer relationships between defence institutions.
The minister also reaffirmed Malaysia’s commitment to ASEAN centrality, describing regional unity as essential to maintaining constructive relationships with international partners. He said ASEAN’s approach, which prioritises dialogue, mutual respect, peaceful dispute resolution and cooperation, has enabled countries with different political systems and national interests to coexist peacefully while pursuing economic development.
Mohamed Khaled further emphasised that Malaysia’s foreign and defence policies are not intended to favour any particular global power. Instead, the country remains focused on preserving regional stability, strengthening diplomatic engagement and maintaining productive relationships with all partners. He expressed confidence that a stronger and more resilient ASEAN would provide a solid foundation for deeper defence cooperation with the United States while safeguarding the region’s long-term peace and prosperity.
