‘TERRORISM SHAPING GLOBAL POLICIES’
Zahid says it’s crucial for greater cooperation on security issues
TERRORISM and violence are shaping global policies, making it crucial to have greater coordination and integration between regional defence and security agencies.
Deputy Prime Minister Datuk Seri Dr Ahmad Zahid Hamidi said the world was living in a time when terror groups, such as the Islamic State and al-Qaeda, employed extremism and terror tactics to spread their influence.
“(As we are) living in such an unpredictable security environment, we must be well prepared to face security challenges.
“To face these global challenges and threats, it is important that we have greater coordination and integration between defence and security agencies in Asean and beyond,” he said when launching the Defence Services Asia (DSA) Exhibition and Conference 2018.
He said Malaysia upheld the importance of Asean members working together in defence.
“In today’s global situation, it is crucial for our military and civilian forces to work with each other to combat external threats.
“The DSA series has recognised the need for greater cooperation between defence units in the region. This is why it continues to gain support from the international defence community.”
Zahid said the DSA series had not only brought about great impact in terms of technological and technical knowledge transfer, but also access to the world’s leading decision-makers and experts in defence.
“Today, DSA is regarded as one of the world’s top five defence shows. It is a crucial platform in supporting the region’s aspirations for sustainable peacekeeping operations. More than just a showcase of latest technologies and weaponry, DSA will continue to bring together governments, policymakers, military agencies and defence mechanisms, from across the region.”
In conjunction with its 30th anniversary, the National Security Asia (NATSEC Asia 2018) exhibition was added to the DSA platform. The international exhibit for national security will focus on national security sectors in the region, including public safety.
“NATSEC Asia 2018 marks a new chapter in the working relationship between home and defence ministries, our police and military forces are working more closely together,” said Zahid.
“We collaborate on things such as border patrol and the sea basing programme off the Sabah coast to uphold the country’s peace and security within borders. The sharing of intelligence between the armed forces, police and other internal security agencies, is important in thwarting possible terrorist attacks.”
Present were Defence Minister Datuk Seri Hishammuddin Hussein, his deputy, Datuk Seri Mohd Johari Baharum, Armed Forces chief General Tan Sri Raja Mohamed Affandi Raja Mohamed Noor and Inspector-General of Police Tan Sri Mohamad Fuzi Harun.
To date, 340 delegations from 45 countries have confirmed their attendance at DSA and NATSEC Asia.