Malaysia must strengthen local defence industry, says Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia must continue strengthening its local defence industry to enhance its capabilities, technology and competitiveness, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

He said national defence was not merely about procuring assets, but also developing the local defence industry to strengthen the country's sovereign capability and self-reliance.

Khaled said strengthening the sector was also vital to ensure it contributed directly to national economic growth.

"This is why the Defence Ministry wants the local defence industry to continue improving its capabilities, technology and competitiveness, thereby contributing to the national economy.

"The ministry will continue to support the development of the local defence industry, in line with the aspirations of the National Defence Industry Policy (DIPN) and the country's strategic needs," he said in a Facebook post today.

Earlier, Khaled visited SME Ordnance Sdn Bhd (SMEO) in Batu Arang, Selangor, to inspect the facilities and capabilities of the local defence company, which produces and supplies various types of ammunition.

He said SMEO, with its 85ha integrated ammunition manufacturing complex, was capable of producing small-, medium- and large-calibre ammunition, as well as grenades and pyrotechnic products, in addition to carrying out ammunition restoration work.