Malaysia Seeks Stronger Domestic Defence Capability Through Weststar-RTI Partnership

From Diah Nor Iscahyono Mohd Jaiz Masyhuri

CANBERRA, July 1 (Bernama) -- Malaysia aims to strengthen its domestic defence technology capabilities to enhance its Sovereign Defence Capability and reduce reliance on foreign defence assets.

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said the strategic move is essential to enable Malaysia to become more self-reliant in meeting its defence requirements while contributing to regional security.

“Every country aspires to achieve Sovereign Defence Capability, which means having the ability to meet its own defence needs without depending on others.

“Strengthening Malaysia’s domestic defence capability will also enable the country to contribute more effectively to security and stability in Southeast Asia,” he told reporters after witnessing the signing of a strategic cooperation agreement between Malaysia’s Weststar Defence Industries Sdn Bhd and Australia’s Rocket Technologies International (RTI) here today.

Present were Dewan Rakyat Speaker Tan Sri Johari Abdul, Malaysian High Commissioner to Australia Datin Paduka Sharrina Abdullah, and Royal Malaysian Air Force chief General Tan Sri Muhamad Norazlan Aris.

Commenting on the partnership, Mohamed Khaled said the government welcomed the initiative, describing it as a catalyst for accelerating the development of Malaysia’s aerospace technology capabilities and strengthening the national defence industry.

“This partnership will allow Malaysia, through Weststar, to develop its defence manufacturing capabilities while becoming part of RTI’s global supply chain,” he said.

Mohamed Khaled noted that the innovative approach spearheaded by Weststar Group aligns with the National Defence Strategy, particularly by enhancing Malaysia’s preparedness to address geopolitical tensions and the growing threat of asymmetric warfare.

The strategic partnership, he said, also reflects the strong defence ties between Malaysia and Australia, particularly following the launch of the Australian National Defence Strategy 2026.

According to the minister, the strategy, supported by the Integrated Investment Programme, places emphasis on Australia’s commitment to helping partner nations develop their defence capabilities.

-- BERNAMA