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Malaysia is reinforcing its position in the global technology landscape by seeking international partnerships, particularly in the fields of defence and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technologies. This move reflects the country’s commitment to fostering innovation and enhancing its technological capabilities through collaboration with other nations.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin underscored Malaysia’s readiness to work with nations that are willing to share their expertise and assist in developing the country’s defence industry. However, the approach is not solely focused on manufacturing defence assets, but rather on positioning Malaysia as a key player in offering services such as maintenance, repair, and oversight of military assets.
The country aims to strengthen its expertise in providing service platforms and producing essential components for defence technologies, positioning itself as a valuable partner in the global defence ecosystem.
Khaled noted that developing defence assets like aircraft is a long-term process, citing Turkiye and South Korea, which took decades. Instead of rushing to produce military hardware, Malaysia is focusing on its strengths in maintenance and repair services, including offering global aircraft services. Khaled emphasised that this approach allows Malaysia to contribute to the defence sector’s growth without replicating the long-term asset production seen in other nations.
The Defence Minister’s visit to South Korea reinforced Malaysia’s commitment to advancing its technological base, particularly in aerospace and AI. At Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI), he observed AI’s use in border monitoring and security, highlighting the potential for integrating such technologies into Malaysia’s defence strategy.
In addition, Khaled’s meeting with South Korea’s Minister of Defence Acquisition Programme Administration, Seol Yong Gun, on the sidelines of the Seoul Defence Dialogue (SDD) 2024, aimed at furthering defence ties between the two nations. This meeting underscores Malaysia’s proactive efforts to build international relationships that will bolster its defence capabilities.
Simultaneously, Malaysia is exploring the potential of UAV technology through a strategic partnership with China. Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi recently announced that Malaysia has entered into a collaboration with China’s third-largest UAV technology company. This partnership focuses on exchanging expertise and facilitating technology transfer to Malaysia, particularly in areas like agriculture and border security, where UAVs are widely used.
A key part of this collaboration involves the transfer of UAV technology to Malaysia’s University Kuala Lumpur Malaysian Institute of Aviation Technology (UniKL MIAT). The university will serve as a training ground for students in UAV production, with the goal of producing 3,000 UAV units per year. This initiative is a significant step toward building Malaysia’s local capacity in UAV manufacturing.
Furthermore, the partnership includes an RM100 million (US$ 21.3 million) investment to establish a permanent facility for technical and vocational education and training (TVET). This facility will not only enhance Malaysia’s expertise in UAV technology but also provide vital hands-on training to students, preparing them for roles in this rapidly evolving sector.
These efforts in UAV technology highlight Malaysia’s ambition to become a regional leader in UAV development, addressing both domestic and international market demands. By leveraging collaborations with technologically advanced nations, Malaysia is positioning itself at the forefront of innovation in both the defence and UAV sectors.
Through these partnerships, Malaysia demonstrates its willingness to engage with global technology leaders to strengthen its capabilities in defence and digital innovations. The collaborations with South Korea and China signify a broader strategy to enhance Malaysia’s technological expertise and drive the development of high-tech industries. By focusing on service provision, advanced technology adoption, and knowledge transfer, Malaysia is paving the way for a more robust and competitive future in the global technology arena.
