Kuala lumpur: Malaysia has urged ASEAN to take bold steps to advance interoperability, expand joint exercises, and strengthen operational frameworks for maritime patrols, counter-terrorism, cyber defence, and disaster relief. Malaysian Chief of Defence Force Gen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar emphasized that cooperation in these areas would directly benefit the people of ASEAN, urging member states to reaffirm past agreements and explore new avenues of collaboration.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Gen Tan Sri Mohd Nizam Jaffar acknowledged the complexity and sensitivity of some issues but stressed that avoiding them would not make them disappear. He advocated for addressing these challenges openly and respectfully to strengthen trust among member states. This trust, he noted, is crucial for facing future challenges with confidence, as mentioned in his opening speech at the 22nd ASEAN Chiefs of Defence Forces Meeting (ACDFM).

He further highlighted that ACDFM has matured into a trusted platform for building understanding and strengthening cooperation among the armed forces. The region faces growing demands on its armed forces, requiring steady judgment, strategic foresight, and decisive action. "That foundation is solid, but the time has come to place more weight on the bridge we have built," he stated.

Mohd Nizam remarked that this year's ACDFM would mark a step forward in solidarity, progress, and the collective security of the region. He emphasized the importance of defence leaders being remembered not just for reacting to crises, but for anticipating them, building bridges, and pursuing purpose rather than power.

He concluded by noting the professionalism and dedication that define the ASEAN military community, while also acknowledging the fragility of peace, the quickness with which stability can be tested, and the high costs of complacency.