Malaysia, US Sign Defence Cooperation MOU

MALAYSIA and the United States signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Defence Cooperation which solidifies over 40 years of bilateral defence ties and a shared commitment to peace, security, and prosperity. The agreement was inked by Malaysia’s defence minister Khaled Nordin and the US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth on the sidelines of the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur. 

In addition, both sides announced the renewal of an Acquisition and Cross-Servicing Agreement and committed to finalise bilateral agreements on communications, information sharing, and geospatial matters.

Both Hegseth and Khaled underscored their commitment to addressing evolving challenges involving cybersecurity, maritime security, terrorism, and violent extremism while reinforcing their commitment to regional peace and stability through continued cooperation on shared security challenges, including in the South China Sea.

The minister and secretary reiterated the importance of communication and dialogue to prevent military miscalculation, while also pursuing modernisation and interoperability to ensure military readiness. Meanwhile, Khaled noted that grey-zone tactics, such as hydrographic research conducted under the protection of foreign coast guard vessels jeopardise sovereignty and are a clear provocation.

Following President Trump’s inaugural visit to Kuala Lumpur to witness the signing of the KL Peace Accord with Malaysian prime minister Anwar Ibrahim towards ending the decades-long dispute between Thailand and Cambodia, Hegseth thanked Malaysia for its leadership as Chair of ASEAN and for its positive role in supporting President Trump’s efforts in mediating a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia. Additionally, Khaled welcomed the US commitment to support observer teams comprised of ASEAN member security forces.

Hegseth’s presence for the ADMM-Plus meeting is his first visit to Malaysia, while Khaled is set to travel to the Pentagon in Washington, DC next year where the pair are expected to meet again.–-shp/adj/dl (Pix:MINDEF, DOW)