Kuala Lumpur: Malaysia will present five key points at the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) Retreat tomorrow, with a focus on artificial intelligence (AI) and cybersecurity in the defence sector, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin. He highlighted the urgent need for ASEAN to assess gaps in understanding and adapting AI to ensure regional security and defence in the future.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, Mohamed Khaled stressed the significant influence that technology, especially AI, will have on national security, peace, and defence. He noted the potential threats posed by the misuse of technology and AI, urging for a collective discussion on the matter. The minister shared these insights at a press conference after inspecting the ADMM Retreat venue.
In addition to AI and cybersecurity, the discussions will address strengthening maritime security in ASEAN, with a focus on the South China Sea (SCS). Mohamed Khaled emphasized the importance of upholding international laws and reducing military tensions in the SCS, a region challenged by overlapping territorial claims and international rivalries. He advocated for ensuring freedom of navigation and collective management of maritime security challenges among ASEAN nations.
Malaysia will also propose the establishment of a Humanitarian and Disaster Relief task force among ASEAN countries to address the increasing frequency of natural disasters due to climate change. Moreover, Mohamed Khaled called for enhanced regional cooperation in developing local defence industries to advance ASEAN's defence supply chain.
He further highlighted the growing threats from non-state actors and biosecurity, advocating for more coordinated regional actions to address these issues. The rise of terrorist groups and organised crime syndicates as potential armed threats underscores the need for ASEAN collaboration.
Malaysia's proposals at the ADMM Retreat will be considered at the ASEAN Defence Ministers' Meeting (ADMM) in November for further deliberation and agreement among member states. Mohamed Khaled reiterated that the retreat serves as a vital platform for ASEAN to assess regional challenges and strengthen the bloc's unity in ensuring regional stability and security.
The retreat is expected to host more than 150 delegates from 10 ASEAN member states, including observer nation Timor-Leste and the ASEAN Secretariat, aligning with Malaysia's ASEAN Chairman 2025 theme of Inclusivity and Sustainability.