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Malaysia Sun
25-05-2025
- Business
- Malaysia Sun
LIMA proved to be effective platform for fostering strategic collaborations
LANGKAWI, Malaysia, May 24 (Xinhua) -- This year's edition of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) has proven to be an effective platform for sharing ideas, showcasing the latest technologies, and fostering strategic collaborations, said Malaysian Defense Minister Mohamed Khaled Nordin on Saturday. According to the defense minister earlier, Malaysia had signed 40 contracts or letters of acceptance, letters of intent and memorandum of understanding worth a total of 11 billion ringgit (2.6 billion U.S. dollars) during the event. He said in his closing ceremony speech of the 17th edition of the LIMA that Malaysia will continue to expand and improve the capabilities of its military-industrial sector to strengthen national security and its prosperity. The official added that the exhibition recorded 1,400 business-to-business meetings and 920 business-to-government sessions over the five days it was held, and attracted over 450,000 visitors, including official visitors and members of the public. This year's highlights included performances by two international flying teams, namely the Russian Knights and Indonesia's Jupiter Aerobatic Team, who joined aerial demonstration groups from the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF), while the runway featured dozens of aircraft from the RMAF and foreign air forces. First launched in 1991, the LIMA has progressively grown to be among the largest aerospace and maritime exhibitions in the region.
New Straits Times
24-05-2025
- Business
- New Straits Times
When will Lima become the premier event in Asia Pacific?
Since its first edition in 1991, the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (Lima) has grown phenomenally. Back then, there were just over 100 exhibitors. Today, that number has multiplied, and includes some of the world's biggest companies. The 17th edition this year was the biggest by far, with more than 600 exhibitors split roughly equally between domestic and foreign companies. The number of Malaysian companies that took part augurs well for the domestic industries involved. But does a bigger show necessarily mean a better one? Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was right to say he wanted Lima to focus on empowering domestic companies, especially small- and medium-sized enterprises. The prime minister wants Lima to help domestic enterprises penetrate international markets. That, ultimately, is the aim of Lima: to ensure that the Malaysian defence, aerospace and maritime industries can grow. A happy consequence of that growth, of course, would be a stronger economy. With the Defence Ministry alone inking deals worth RM11 billion, one would perhaps think this was a huge success. But that's government spending. What about domestic, non-governmental companies? To be fair, some commercial deals were signed — but specific figures were not disclosed. One sign that Lima may not be as successful as it appears: the Singapore Airshow attracts around 1,000 exhibitors. Bear in mind that this is a show that made its debut only in 2008, 17 years after the inaugural Lima. And it is a show dedicated to the aerospace industry. What sets Lima apart is its equal emphasis on both aerospace and maritime sectors. While other shows may touch on both, most prioritise one over the other. Yet we fail to draw more exhibitors than Singapore. Perhaps that has to do with the size of the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre, but let us not use that as an excuse as, many times before, we have heard of "plans" to upgrade the venue and even increase its size. There is another indicator. While Lima is more than just an airshow, that still remains an important part of the exhibition as a whole. The airshow draws the crowds. The airshow also draws companies to show off their wares. This year we had two aerobatics teams: the Russian Knights and Indonesia's Jupiter. It would have been three if India's Surya Kiran had not pulled out. We used to have more. Among them were the United Kingdom's Red Arrows, arguably the most famous in the world; China's August 1st; South Korea's Black Eagles; and, the United Arab Emirates' Al Fursan. We have had advanced aircraft like the F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, the Eurofighter Typhoon and French Rafale burning up the skies in an attempt to fight their way into our multi-role combat aircraft programme. This year, all we had were our Royal Malaysian Air Force aircraft and what one journalist described as a "quick buzz" from a United States Navy Super Hornet and E/A-18 Growler. Rumours were that there would be some fifth generation fighter aircraft in the mix, but that came to nothing, with even the Sukhoi Su-57 Felon giving Lima a miss though it had made its public debut in India not too long ago. With lacklustre airshows, how then are we to draw interested parties to view what's at hand? When will Lima become the premier event in the region — not just Southeast Asia but the Asia Pacific —for aerospace and maritime industries? Yes, the exhibition is not about the airshow. Yes, the most important thing is for domestic companies to showcase their capabilities. But the former brings the opportunity for the latter, in a roundabout way. In terms of deal value, Lima '25 can be considered a success. One can only wonder, though, if this series of exhibitions should not have reached even greater heights by now. It certainly has the potential.
Malay Mail
24-05-2025
- Business
- Malay Mail
Despite rain, Lima'25 concludes with 450,000 turnout for defence and aerospace expo
LANGKAWI, May 24 — The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima'25) concluded today, recording an attendance of approximately 450,000 visitors from all commercial and business sectors, both domestic and international delegations, as well as the general public. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said this marks the Lima edition as a continuous platform and arena for sharing various ideas, the latest technologies, and strategic collaborations that are very important for the country. After the rain cleared, the Russian Knights' fighter jet display lifted the spirits of attendees at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima '25). — Bernama pic 'Even though the atmosphere is uncertain, with the rain like today, we still saw many people rushing into the exhibition hall to witness the technological developments being showcased. 'This year saw the participation of 860 exhibitors, a figure higher compared to Lima'23, consisting of 50 per cent local exhibitors and 50 per cent international exhibitors, a very commendable achievement,' he said in his closing speech at Lima'25 at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) here today. Over the course of five days, Mohamed Khaled said Lima'25 also recorded 1,400 business-to-business (B2B) meetings and 920 business-to-government (B2G) sessions. Therefore, he said, all these achievements provide a positive outlook on the development and future of the country's defence industry, thus becoming the nation's hope and reliance to reduce the country's dependence on external parties. Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin delivers the closing address for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima'25) at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC) today. — Bernama pic Apart from the commercial aspects and business transactions, the defence minister said Lima'25 also expanded its vibrancy and excellence by recording an increase in the number of static asset exhibitions compared to previous editions. In fact, for the first time, Lima'25 featured a high immersive experience dome, known as the A.T.M.O.S Sphere, which stands for Aerospace, Technology, Maritime, and Operations for Sustainability. 'This is a glimpse of how many more things we do not know in this world... and if we want to become a successful nation, we must have the value of always learning and uncovering things that are still unknown to us,' he added. A.T.M.O.S Sphere is a high-tech exhibition that uses 360-degree technology and audiovisual immersion to reflect Malaysia's aspirations to lead advancements in land, sea, air and beyond. Despite the heavy rain in Langkawi, crowds still turned up and captured memories on the final day of the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (Lima '25) today. — Bernama pic Lima'25 is organised by the Defence Ministry, in collaboration with Global Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC), and emphasises innovation and enhancing competitiveness among industry players in line with current technological developments. This exhibition is the largest in the maritime and aerospace industry in Southeast Asia since it was first held in 1991. — Bernama
Newsweek
22-05-2025
- General
- Newsweek
US and Russia Flex Military Muscles on Same Stage
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. The United States and Russia have deployed their air and naval assets to Malaysia for a defense exhibition as Washington and Moscow jostle for influence in Southeast Asia. Newsweek has contacted the Pentagon and the Russian Defense Ministry for comment via email. Why It Matters The encounter in Malaysia marked the second time this year that U.S. and Russian militaries have shared the same stage at a defense-related event in Asia. Stealth fighter jets from both nations—the F-35A and the Su-57E—also participated in an air show in India in February. Southeast Asian nations have carefully navigated the rivalries between major powers, including China, amid the great power competition. For the U.S., the region is a key component of its Indo-Pacific strategy, while Russia seeks to assert its influence as it remains engaged in a war in Europe. A United States Air Force C-130J transport aircraft sitting on the flight line during an opening ceremony flyover at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia on May 20. A United States Air Force C-130J transport aircraft sitting on the flight line during an opening ceremony flyover at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia on May 20. Senior Airman Alexzandra Gracey/U.S. Air Force What To Know The Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition was held from Tuesday to Saturday on Langkawi Island in the Strait of Malacca off the northwestern coast of Malaysia. The biennial event featured 102 aircraft and 35 naval ships from different nations. The U.S. military deployed two F/A-18E fighter jets, a C-130J transport aircraft, an MH-60R helicopter, the destroyer USS Lenah Sutcliffe Higbee and more than 400 personnel to the event, showing the shared commitment of the U.S. and Malaysia to "a free and open Indo-Pacific." Meanwhile, photos show the U.S. aircraft carrier USS Nimitz, which was previously tracked transiting the Strait of Malacca en route to the Indian Ocean, docked at Port Klang—near Malaysia's capital, Kuala Lumpur—on Wednesday, with the destroyer USS Curtis Wilbur. "Malaysia continues to be a key partner for us in the Indo-Pacific," said Vice Admiral Fred Kacher, the commander of the U.S. Seventh Fleet. He said his command had strengthened close naval cooperation with Malaysia through numerous joint exercises and exchanges. Russia sent two Pacific Fleet corvettes—the Rezky and the Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov—to Langkawi Island on Monday, while the country's aerobatic team, the Russian Knights, performed at the exhibition's opening ceremony the following day. Fighter jets of the Russian Knights aerobatic team performing in the sky during an aerial demonstration at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia on May 20. Fighter jets of the Russian Knights aerobatic team performing in the sky during an aerial demonstration at the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition in Malaysia on May 20. VCG/VCG via AP Rosoboronexport, Russia's state-run defense export agency, said Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim reviewed the Russian military equipment on display. Malaysia operates several Russian-made weapon systems, including the Su-30MKM fighter jets. Last week, Anwar paid an official visit to Moscow and met with President Vladimir Putin. He described Malaysia's relationship with Russia as "special," adding that both nations were committed to upholding the principles of rule of international law and sovereignty. What People Are Saying U.S. Ambassador to Malaysia Edgard Kagan said: "From our aircraft and warships to our companies and innovators, the American presence at [the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition] demonstrates our robust military and commercial engagement across the region. We are proud to stand with Malaysia as partners, friends, and defenders of a free and open Indo-Pacific—working to build a region that is safer, stronger, and more prosperous." Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said: "We ascribe to the [Association of Southeast Asian Nations] position of centrality takes a very strong committed position to engage with all our neighboring countries and partners, East and West, United States, China, India, Australia and the rest and I think this for me, means truly strategic engagements with partners that will secure and ensure peace for the present and future." Russian President Vladimir Putin said: "Russia and Malaysia are bound by long-standing traditions of friendship and mutual understanding. We have always strived to consider each other's interests, work as partners, and build cooperation on the basis of mutual respect and mutual benefit, and we continue to do so." What Happens Next It remains to be seen how the U.S. and Russia will maintain or expand their military presence in Southeast Asia alongside China, where disputes in the South China Sea remain unsolved.
Malay Mail
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Malay Mail
Langkawi hosts roaring return of LIMA 2025 with global defence assets on display
LANGKAWI, May 20 — The tranquil skies of Langkawi will once again be filled with the roar of aircraft, as the surrounding seas are graced with the impressive presence of defence assets from various nations participating in the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition 2025 (LIMA'25). Held under the theme 'Today's Innovation, Tomorrow's Achievements' the 17th edition of LIMA officially kicked off last night with an opening ceremony officiated by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim at the Langkawi International Convention Centre (LICC). At 8.30 am today, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) will hold a Gracing Ceremony and Opening Gambit at the Mahsuri International Exhibition Centre (MIEC), with the launch gimmick officiated by Anwar. The ceremony will be launched by Anwar, alongside Kedah Menteri Besar Datuk Seri Muhammad Sanusi Md Nor and Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. The ceremony will be followed by aerobatic displays from several participating countries, including the renowned Russian Knights from Russia, famous for their precision formation performances using large aircraft. Also participating is the Jupiter Aerobatic Team from Indonesia, which will amaze the skies of Langkawi with their signature manoeuvre, the 'Jupiter Roll, ' using six KT-1B Woongbi aircraft painted in red and white to represent the country's flag. Not to be outdone, the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) will showcase their Su-30MKM fighter jets featuring a new look under the special title 'Toruk Makto', inspired by the legendary creature 'Toruk' or 'The Last Shadow' from the film 'Avatar'. The Prime Minister is also scheduled to open the Maritime Gracing Ceremony at the Resorts World Langkawi (RWL) in the afternoon and this will be followed by the LIMA'25 fleet review, a traditional naval ceremony involving inspection of ships at sea, practised by navies worldwide. Throughout the five-day exhibition, various air and sea demonstrations will take place, involving military assets from multiple countries, featuring the latest fighter jets, helicopters, and participation from regional naval forces. In total, 57 aircraft and 39 maritime display assets from both local and international participants, including those from Brazil, France, Italy, Singapore, Indonesia, and the United States, will be showcased in this LIMA edition. LIMA'25 is co-organised by the Ministry of Defence and Global Exhibitions and Conferences Sdn Bhd (GEC), focusing on innovation and enhancing competitiveness among industry players in line with technological advancements. Since its inception in 1991, LIMA has been Southeast Asia's most significant maritime and aerospace exhibition. — Bernama
