Kuala Lumpur:The Defence Ministry has confirmed that Sabah's sovereignty and security are well-protected despite an increase in military activity by the United States and the Philippines on Balabac Island, near Malaysia's border.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari stated that the ministry is consistently monitoring defence developments and any rise in foreign military activities, assessing their implications for national security and strategic interests.

Malaysia acknowledges the right of neighboring countries to enhance their defence capabilities through cooperation, while ensuring its own defence remains robust and capable of adapting to changes in the security landscape. In response, the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF) have increased readiness in Sabah, particularly in the northern areas close to Balabac Island.

Efforts to strengthen Sabah's defence include enhanced border controls, surveillance, and intelligence capabilities with the use of radar, drones, and other monitoring assets. These measures were elaborated by Adly during a Dewan Rakyat session, in response to a question from Datuk Ewon Benedick regarding the development of US-Philippines military facilities on Balabac Island, approximately 50 kilometers from Sabah's coast.

The ministry is also enhancing defence through the Total Defence (HANRUH) concept, with a Whole-of-Government and Whole-of-Society (WOGOS) approach. This involves collaboration with the Royal Malaysia Police, the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, and other relevant agencies.

Further strengthening is sought through international defence cooperation, including information sharing and joint training exercises. Malaysia also emphasizes a diplomatic approach to maintain strategic balance in Southeast Asia, advocating for ASEAN's neutrality and non-alignment to avoid regional pressures from global superpowers.

Long-term planning for Sabah's defence sector includes restructuring up to 2050 and acquiring new assets like Littoral Mission Ships, FA-50M light combat aircraft, and Littoral Combat Ships.