National Defence Industry Policy to be presented to Cabinet next month, says Khaled
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin said the ministry is finalising the policy as a strategic framework to enhance self-reliance, innovation, and technological advancement in the country's defence industry.
He said the ministry firmly believes that self-reliant defence capabilities are fundamental to the nation's sovereignty, security, and independence, especially in the face of an increasingly challenging geopolitical landscape.
"The ministry is currently developing and will continue to develop self-reliant defence capabilities with a focus on several key aspects, among them are the empowerment of the Defence Science and Technology Research Institute as a centre of excellence in Southeast Asia and the adoption of an integrated ecosystem approach in building science, technology, and innovation capabilities in defence.
"This also includes the restructuring of the Malaysian Industry Council for Defence Enforcement and Security to Defence Industry Strategic Council to improve governance; the development of a comprehensive Industrial Collaboration Programme policy for the defence sector; and the establishment of a special purpose vehicle under the Armed Forces Fund Board to strengthen industrial development within the local defence ecosystem and to enhance ICP management," he said in reply to Kamal Ashaari (PN-Kuala Krau).
He inquired about measures taken by the government to build the capabilities for self-defence and the military, including the development of local weapons technology to reduce dependence on external powers in facing future threats, similar to the stance taken by Iran.
Khaled said the government has also received and is considering research and development collaboration offers from nations, particularly Turkiye, in defence-related areas such as border security systems, professional radio systems and air defence systems among others.
"For Malaysia, the development of self-reliant defence capabilities encompasses the advancement of technology, weapons systems, maintenance infrastructure and the strengthening of local human capital.
The goal is to reduce dependence on foreign powers and enhance the efficiency of response to any threats," he said.
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