Malaysia’s Successful Military Conferences Highlight Regional Security Commitment

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 (Bernama) -- The successful conclusion of three major military conferences held here has highlighted Malaysia’s firm commitment to regional security and the confidence placed in the country by international partners, said Army chief Gen Tan Sri Muhammad Hafizuddeain Jantan.

He said the gatherings went beyond formal discussions, featuring meaningful bilateral engagements and cultural activities that strengthened understanding and personal connections among delegates.

“We are proud to have successfully hosted these landmark events, but our work does not stop here. The outcomes of our discussions will serve as the foundation for deeper cooperation in the years ahead.

“Beyond discussions, they built friendship, partnership, and professional bonds that ensure our armies remain connected, resilient and ready for the future,” he said in a press conference here today.

The 14th Indo-Pacific Armies Chiefs Conference (IPACC), 49th Indo-Pacific Armies Management Seminar (IPAMS) and 11th Senior Enlisted Leaders Forum (SELF) 2025, held under the theme "Forging Synergy: Transforming Multinational Land Power Networks Through Open Fashion Contact", began on Monday and concluded today.

This year’s event brought together 161 participants from 23 nations, excluding the co-hosts Malaysia and the United States.

Meanwhile, United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) Commanding General Gen Ronald Clark praised the Malaysian Army for its leadership in hosting the conferences and for its ability to bring together regional partners.

“The commitment to excellence shown during this conference is a testament to the Malaysian Army. Their ability to bring together partners and allies allows us to build the relationships from which we all benefit, reinforcing regional stability.

“The US and Malaysian armies have a long history of cooperation built upon a bedrock of trust, mutual respect, and a shared vision for a safe and secure Indo-Pacific region,” he said.

Clark also highlighted the success of Exercise Keris Strike held from July 17 to 29 this year as a key pillar of regional security cooperation, noting its continued growth in scope, scale and significance.

The IPACC was attended by 24 participants, including 12 army chiefs from 11 countries and 12 representatives from other nations, with discussions focusing on "Transformation in Contact" and "Multinational Exercises and the Landpower Network".

IPAMS gathered 87 senior officers from the rank of Colonel to Brigadier General, representing 20 countries, to discuss lessons from the Russia-Ukraine conflict, the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in military operations, and challenges in mastering the information domain.

Meanwhile, SELF provided a platform for 50 Regimental Sergeant Majors and Non-Commissioned Officer (NCO) representatives from 16 countries to deliberate on modernising NCO leadership for the next generation, covering leadership, readiness and professional development.

As part of the programme, IPACC and SELF participants witnessed a Counter Insurgency Warfare (CIW) and Jungle Survival demonstration by the Malaysian Army at Taman Eko Rimba Komanwel, Rawang, on Sept 24.

A spouse programme was also organised, featuring a discussion on stress management and visits to the Islamic Arts Museum Malaysia and Kuala Lumpur Craft Complex to showcase the nation’s cultural heritage.

-- BERNAMA