KUALA LUMPUR, June 25 (Bernama) -- Japan stands ready to work even more closely with Malaysia to enhance security cooperation amid an increasingly complex global security environment, said Japan Ambassador to Malaysia Noriyuki Shikata.
He said Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Malaysian Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim had reaffirmed their shared determination to deepen strategic cooperation, with defence and security at its core, during the latter’s visit to Japan earlier this month.
Shikata said the leaders also agreed to deepen synergy between Japan’s Free and Open Indo-Pacific (FOIP) vision and the ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific, moving the region towards greater stability and shared prosperity.
“A priority within this vision is enhanced security cooperation, and Japan stands ready to work even more closely with Malaysia,” he said in his speech at the 72nd Japan Self-Defence Forces Day Reception here on Wednesday.
Also present was Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Malek Razak Sulaiman.
The ambassador said Japan and Malaysia elevated their relationship to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership in 2023, while Anwar’s recent visit to Japan underscored the continued momentum in bilateral ties.
“As we look ahead to the 70th anniversary of our diplomatic ties next year, I am committed to taking our cooperation to the next level in every field, including defence and security,” he said.
Shikata said the Japan Maritime Self-Defence Force and the Royal Malaysian Navy regularly conduct the bilateral exercise MALPAN in the South China Sea and the Strait of Malacca.
In April, MALPAN included the Royal Malaysian Air Force, further deepening cooperation in the maritime and air domains.
“These are practical steps that build trust, sharpen interoperability, and keep our sea lanes safe,” he said, adding that Japan is working closely with like-minded partners, including Malaysia, to support de-escalation, uphold international law, and keep the seas open and secure.
He said Japan is also expanding its work through the Official Security Assistance (OSA), launched in 2023, with Malaysia among its very first recipients.
“Last year, we provided UAVs and rescue boats. Under OSA 2025, Japan has provided equipment for ceasefire monitoring to the ASEAN Observer Team and will provide a diving support vessel to the Royal Malaysian Navy.
“These are concrete contributions to regional stability and to Malaysia’s important leadership role,” he said.
On defence industry cooperation, Shikata said 10 Japanese companies participated in Defence Services Asia 2026 in Kuala Lumpur, showcasing advanced technologies and equipment.
Japan and Malaysia also signed the Terms of Reference during the event to launch a bilateral defence industry dialogue, he added.
-- BERNAMA
