KUALA LUMPUR: The Defence Ministry must not remain passive observers in matters affecting Malaysia's sovereignty, said its minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
In his New Year's address, Khaled saidas the nation's front-line guardians, both the ministry and the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) must actively engage by offering constructive insights and recommendations to the government, particularly on critical defence issues.
"Defence readiness goes beyond assets, human resources, and technology.
"It is vital that the ministry and MAF present clear, informed positions on national sovereignty, and contribute to discussions on significant issues that could affect the country," he said.
Khaled said the evolving and challenging global landscape such as the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the China-US trade war, climate change, food security, and the rise of disruptive technologies like artificial intelligence must be evaluated through the lens of national defence.
This, he said will ensure Malaysia's position remains aligned with both regional and international needs.
He also acknowledged that Malaysia's chairmanship of Asean in 2025 adds further responsibility to the ministry, requiring a proactive role in shaping regional security dynamics.
"During Malaysia's Asean chairmanship, we must ensure no escalation of regional tensions that could lead to conflict, and elevate Asean role as a critical platform for managing such challenges," he said.
He said during Malaysia's tenure as Asean chair, the ministry will focus on maintaining regional stability by preventing any escalation of tensions.
"The ministry also aims to strengthen Asean diplomatic role by promoting it as a leading platform for addressing regional challenges, particularly through key meetings such as the Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus, scheduled for November 2025.
"Additionally, efforts will be made to enhance defence cooperation by increasing joint exercises, collaborations, and diplomatic engagement with Asean members, observers, and strategic partners."
He also reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to international peacekeeping missions under the United Nations (UN), particularly highlighting the nation's ongoing role in the UN Interim Force in Lebanon (Unifil).
"We will continue our contributions to global peace missions, but we will also advocate for necessary reforms to ensure these missions are effective and impactful," he said.
ENDS
KEYWORDS: Malaysia, Malaysia News, NST, nation, Defence Ministry, Khaled Nordin, armed forces, sovereignty issues, Asean