KUALA LUMPUR, April 20 (Bernama) -- Malaysia is set to join the global supply chain for defence asset components, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.
He said Malaysia has strengths in developing software, integrated circuits and various IT components.
"Our local firms like CTRM (Composites Technology Research Malaysia Sdn Bhd) in Melaka are already in the global supply chain for aircraft parts.
"Some local companies can already produce bullets, flare systems for aircraft and ground vehicles, and even propose making their own 105 mm artillery guns. This shows we're shifting from being mere agents to recognised component manufacturers," he said.
He told reporters this after launching the Defence Ministry pavilion at the Defence Services Asia (DSA) exhibition and National Security (NATSEC) Asia 2026 trade show here today.
Mohamed Khaled said the ministry is now requiring 30 per cent local components in defence asset procurement, giving local innovators a real chance to showcase their capabilities.
At the DSA-NATSEC launch earlier, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim urged global defence and aerospace players to strengthen ties with Malaysian manufacturers as the nation grows in high-value global supply chains.
In another development, Mohamed Khaled said MALBATT 850-13, serving with the UNIFIL peacekeeping mission, is staying on high alert, even with the 10-day Lebanon-Israel ceasefire now in effect since last Friday.
“If there’s a violation (of the ceasefire), they’ve been told to take cover in bunkers,” he said.
On the recent report of a French soldier killed near the Lebanon border, Mohamed Khaled said Malaysia’s troops are now stationed in a safer area.
“Malaysia's troops are holding a central position, while Indonesian and French forces are closer to the Lebanon-Israel border. Still, we can't take it lightly as missiles and rockets can cross the line,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
