Three Major Military Conferences To Boost Malaysia, US Cooperation

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 23 (Bernama) -- Three major military conferences jointly organised by the Malaysian Army and the United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) from Sept 23 to 26 in Kuala Lumpur are serving as a platform to further strengthen defence ties between Malaysia and the United States.

USARPAC Chaplain Colonel Khallid Shabazz said the gatherings provide a valuable opportunity for military leaders to engage in direct discussions on key issues, including artificial intelligence, operational readiness and strategic partnerships.

He noted that the conferences bring together army chiefs, senior leaders and enlisted personnel from across the Indo-Pacific to foster friendship, build coalitions and enhance regional security cooperation.

“If you get leaders in the room to exchange ideas and find out what works, that’s when real connection happens. Sending emails or virtual communication doesn’t have the same impact as sitting down together to understand what’s happening on the ground,” he told Bernama as a guest on The Nation programme on Bernama TV today.

Shabazz, who holds two doctoral degrees and four master’s degrees, is one of only five Muslim chaplains in the US Army.

With his promotion to colonel in 2018, Shabazz became the highest-ranking Muslim chaplain in the US military. With over 35 years of service, he has dedicated his career to guiding soldiers of all faiths.

Reflecting on his role, he explained that USARPAC conducts more than 30 exercises annually with regional partners, where chaplains play a vital role in supporting soldiers and leaders who may face personal struggles such as marital conflict, depression and adjustment challenges.

“One of the key roles of chaplains is what we call the ‘Ministry of Presence’, which means being with soldiers wherever they are, building trust and showing genuine care. Connection is everything, and when soldiers see you care for them, that’s how you gain access to support them,” he said.

As a Muslim chaplain, Shabazz emphasised that his mission extends beyond religious boundaries.

“If a soldier is Catholic and needs spiritual guidance, I can refer them to a Catholic priest. Chaplains focus on making individuals stronger and helping them tap into their spiritual core, regardless of faith,” he said.

He also underscored the importance of spiritual resilience for readiness, particularly during deployments and conflicts.

-- BERNAMA