KUALA LUMPUR, April 21 (Bernama) -- The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is inviting Malaysian and international companies to explore opportunities across multiple sectors at its pavilion at the Defence Services Asia 2026 (DSA 2026).
Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement Director General of Industry Development Shareef Hashim Al Hashmi said the opportunities include research and development, co-development of technologies, and integration into resilient cross border supply chains.
The focus is on practical collaboration that delivers capability development, knowledge transfer and long-term industrial growth for all parties, he added.
“The UAE Pavilion presents a platform for collaboration that goes beyond traditional procurement. It brings together leading national companies showcasing capabilities across advanced manufacturing…
“...MRO (maintenance,repair and overhaul), supply chain integration, and emerging technologies such as autonomous systems and cybersecurity,” he said in a statement today.
Shareef Al Hashmi said the Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, an independent government entity that works closely with the Defence Ministry and security agencies in the UAE, also actively encourages Malaysian small, medium-sized enterprises (SME) to engage through structured channels.
He said this includes supplier registration, participation in joint development initiatives and integration into programmes under its industrial development framework.
“As part of our focus on strengthening innovation and enabling emerging companies, we are introducing an Entrepreneurship Enablement Programme. This initiative is designed to support start-ups and SMEs by enhancing their technical and commercial readiness…
“...and connecting them to opportunities across the defence ecosystem, including R&D (Research and Development) and industry-led projects,” he said.
He added that SMEs with niche technologies, specialised manufacturing expertise or innovative solutions are well positioned to contribute, in line with Tawazun's emphasis on capability alignment and competitiveness.
Shareef Hashmi said enabling joint ventures and strategic partnerships is a core element of Tawazun’s approach to industrial development, as well as supporting collaborative models that promote co-development, co-production, and shared investment in advanced capabilities, especially with Malaysian defence firms.
“Malaysia’s evolving defence industry and its strategic position in Southeast Asia makes it a strong and complementary partner.
“We are particularly focused on partnerships that strengthen industrial capabilities, deepen supply chain integration, and facilitate meaningful technology exchange, delivering sustainable, long-term value for both sides,” he said.
He said Malaysia is strategically important partner within the Asia-Pacific region, with a growing industrial base, strong technical capabilities, and a clear focus on defence sector development.
-- BERNAMA
