Kuala lumpur: Malaysia is set to begin rocket production within the next two years, with plans to eventually expand into missile manufacturing, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. He stated that this ambitious target can be achieved through strategic partnerships involving both local and foreign companies.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the government has expressed its full support for the collaboration between Weststar Group and Rocket Technologies International Pty Ltd (RTI). This partnership is seen as a critical step towards building domestic capabilities in rocket and missile development. Mohamed Khaled emphasized the significance of Weststar's investment, which will enable Malaysia to integrate into RTI's global supply chain, offering local companies opportunities to grow within the international defence ecosystem.

The Defence Minister highlighted that this investment represents not only a boost for the national defence industry but also a strategic long-term move to enhance the country's defence capabilities for future generations. He noted that this initiative aligns with the National Defence Industry Policy, which seeks to bolster local defence capabilities and achieve a sovereign defence standing.

In his statement, Mohamed Khaled extended his gratitude to the Australian Government for its support and approval of the collaboration and technology transfer between RTI and Weststar. His remarks came during a three-day official working visit to Australia, where he witnessed the signing of the strategic partnership agreement between Weststar Group, through its subsidiary Weststar Defence Industries Sdn Bhd, and RTI.

The agreement was formalized by Weststar Group founder and managing director Tan Sri Dr Syed Azman Syed Ibrahim and RTI founder Allan James Payne, marking a significant milestone in Malaysia's defence industry ambitions.