KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia remains committed to the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) despite the emergence of the new alliance between Australia, the United Kingdom and United States (AUKUS), the Dewan Rakyat was told today.
The Senior Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein said the country's position in FDPA (which also comprised of United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore) would not change as it had been proven to be beneficial to member states when facing geopolitical super powers in the region, especially in the South China Sea.
"Malaysia had made its stand on AUKUS clear. Facing the geopolitical powers, especially in (the context of) South China Sea, is a complex matter.
"The advantage that we have is our relationship with 10 Asean countries and the respective ties with the FPDA members," he said in reply to a supplementary question from Wong Hon Wai (PH-Bukit Bendera) during the ministerial question time.
Hishammuddin said the strong bilateral ties with others countries also puts Malaysia in a position to balance the major powers in the region while remained respected by the two polar powers in the South China Sea conflict.
Earlier, Hishammuddin said all FPDA member countries have expressed their commitment to focus on developing three important elements.
He said these elements are fostering relationships between member states and fulfilling strategic commitments; increasing the capacity of member states in line with current security requirements and strengthening coordination between the respective armed forces.
"The FPDA is still relevant and able to play a role in helping the country meet the security challenges in the future."
Established in 1971, FPDA was the second oldest multilateral defence pact in the world, with a main goal to defend the security of Malaysia and Singapore, he said.
"Each member state is determined to consult with each other on steps to be taken in the event of an external threat to Malaysia and Singapore," said Hishammuddin.
Since its inception in 1971, FPDA member states had forged close military cooperation through various exercises for the purpose of enhancing the capabilities of respective countries, he said.
"Recently, 'Bersama Gold 21' exercise (XBG21) was held at the South China Sea maritime, as well as air space of Malaysia and Singapore.
"It involved 25 fighter aircrafts, six helicopters, 10 ships, a submarine and 2,600 military personnel from Malaysia, Singapore, United Kingdom, Australia and New Zealand."
He said Malaysia played host for the 11th FPDA Defence Ministers' Meeting held virtually recently, with the high commissioners and Defence Attaches were present physically.
"Each country has expressed its commitment to strengthen understanding and cooperation in protecting the sovereignty of Singapore and Malaysia."
There were also exchanges in views on current security challenges, discussion on exercises and activities; 10-year training plan from 2022 until 2031 and 50th FPDA Anniversary Stock-Take, he added.