South Korea, Malaysia Formalise Defence Partnership Built On Mutual Trust

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 22 (Bernama) – South Korea and Malaysia have successfully institutionalised defence cooperation based on mutual trust, with Artificial Intelligence (AI) emerging as a new driver of collaboration, said Korean Ambassador to Malaysia Yeo Seung-bae.

In a statement issued by the South Korean Embassy in Malaysia, Yeo said at the Third Korea-Malaysia Defence Industry Day on Monday that defence cooperation between the two nations has been successfully institutionalised on the basis of mutual trust, ahead of the upcoming signing of the Korea-Malaysia Defence Cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU).

He noted that South Korea’s defence industry boasts advanced capabilities, particularly in AI-driven technologies, which could further enhance the future-oriented partnership between the two countries.

Highlighting the theme of this year’s seminar, Yeo highlighted the importance of AI-driven defence collaboration and the role of cutting-edge technologies in shaping future security.

The ambassador also stressed the need to establish stronger networks between Korean and Malaysian defence companies to foster local investments, technology transfers, and deeper mutual understanding, contributing to the growth of Malaysia’s defence industry.

The one-day event, attended by about 150 participants including officials, academics and defence industry representatives from both countries, featured presentations on AI policies, as well as discussions on the application of AI in defence and potential areas for further collaboration.

Representatives from major South Korean defence companies, including KAI, LIG Nex1, Hyundai Heavy Industries, Hanwha Aerospace, Hanwha Ocean, Hanwha Systems, and Nearthlab, showcased their AI-enhanced capabilities and reaffirmed their interest in strengthening cooperation with Malaysia.

The embassy said that over 20 Malaysian defence companies also participated in the event, creating opportunities for meaningful exchanges with Korean government and private sector officials.

It said that the Korea-Malaysia Defence Industry Day was held against the backdrop of growing bilateral defence cooperation, following successful projects such as the FA-50 export agreement in 2023 and the Haegung missile system export in 2024.

-- BERNAMA