June 26, 2024, Malaysian Institute of Defence and Security (MiDAS) hosted a significant event focused on Malaysia's defense strategy.
The Defense White Paper Roadshow brought together key officials and stakeholders to address crucial aspects of national security.
FAdm Ee Chee Kiong, in his inaugural address, set the stage by outlining the intricate challenges faced by Malaysia regarding its Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) claims and the paramount need to uphold border sovereignty, particularly in maritime regions critical to national security.
Central to FAdm Ee's remarks was the advocacy for a Whole of Government, Whole of Society (WOGOS) approach. He stressed the imperative for seamless cooperation among various governmental bodies and civil society to fortify Malaysia's defense capabilities comprehensively.
Mr. Sahipulhijaiman bin Sulaiman, an official from the Policy and Strategic Division, Ministry of Defence, further elucidated on the Defense White Paper, a strategic document designed to guide Malaysia's defense posture from 2021 to 2030 (RMK12 - RMK13).
He also emphasizing themes of safety, sovereignty, and prosperity, he underscored Malaysia's role as a maritime nation bridging East and West, while advocating for a neutral stance in navigating relations among major powers.
He also touched on specific challenges such as territorial disputes in the South China Sea, regional complexities, and emerging non-traditional threats like cyber-attacks were also addressed.
In the second sedsion, a panel discussion, moderated by Ms. Nor Aini and featuring Brig Gen Dato' Dr. Mohd Radzi bin Hj Abdul Hamid and Mr. Sahipulhijaiman, highlighted current and future challenges including territorial integrity, regional geopolitics, terrorism, and cyber warfare.
The discussion underscored the importance of the WOGOS model in orchestrating a robust defense strategy and the role of PLKN 3.0 in enhancing national defense preparedness.
Notably, the event reaffirmed Malaysia's commitment to the Defense White Paper's strategic goals until 2030.
It stressed the necessity for sustained investment in defense capabilities aligned with national interests and called for heightened public awareness and engagement in safeguarding Malaysia's sovereignty and prosperity in an ever-evolving global landscape.
The Roadshow KPP exemplified Malaysia's proactive approach to national defense, ensuring readiness against multifaceted challenges and reinforcing its strategic position in Southeast.
