Defence Secretary Co-Chairs 13th Malaysia-India Defence Cooperation Committee Meeting

A Defence Cooperation Committee (MIDCOM) meeting between Malaysia and India was held on February 19th, 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, marking a significant step in strengthening bilateral defence ties. The meeting was jointly chaired by Defence Secretary Shri Rajesh Kumar Singh from India and Malaysia’s Secretary General of Defence Mr. Lokman Hakim Bin Ali, highlighting the growing strategic partnership between the two nations. Discussions focused on enhancing defence manufacturing collaborations, maritime security, and emerging areas like cyber security and artificial intelligence, reinforcing India’s role in Indo-Pacific security and regional cooperation.

Key Highlights

• Defence and military organizations exchanged insights about manufacturing ties and ocean security along with joint international diplomatic relations.

• Emerging Domains: Enhanced cooperation in cyber security and artificial intelligence.

• Workers in a joint focus group have been established to tackle non-standard maritime security threats within the region.

• Strategic Agreements: Establishment of a Strategic Affairs Working Group and an Su-30 Forum for air force cooperation.

Impact on India

• Security Enhancement: India increases its impact on Indo-Pacific security through enhanced region-wide security protection capabilities.

• Defence Industry Growth: Strengthens collaboration between Indian and Malaysian defence industries.

• Maritime Safety: Supports ASEAN’s vision of a stable maritime environment.

• Strategic Diplomacy: Aligns with India's Act East Policy, SAGAR (Security and Growth for All in the Region), and the Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative.

Conclusion

India demonstrates its dedication to international security and maritime safety as well as regional stability through its expanded defense relations along with its position as the IALA Vice Presidency and enhanced Malaysian partnerships. Indian strategic interests within the Indo-Pacific region and its goal for a sustainable international system both find alignment with these recent developments.