KUALA LUMPUR – Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security Asia (NATSEC) 2026 officially opened today at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), positioning Malaysia as a central hub for defence and security cooperation in Asia.
The biennial exhibition, now in its 19th edition, has drawn 1,456 companies from 63 countries, surpassing participation figures from 2024.
Organisers emphasised that the event showcases advanced defence technologies across land, air, and sea domains, alongside innovations in national security systems such as policing, battlefield healthcare, and simulation training.
Prime Minister Dato’ Seri Anwar Ibrahim, who officiated the launch, underscored the importance of defence technology aligned with principles of peace and justice.
He highlighted Malaysia’s role as a neutral and reliable partner in global supply chains, particularly in aerospace and semiconductor manufacturing.
The Prime Minister also reaffirmed the government’s commitment to a transparent and integrity-based investment climate, urging stronger collaboration among industry players to address challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and energy security.
The exhibition is taking place against a backdrop of global uncertainty, including conflicts in the Middle East.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin noted that Malaysia’s ability to host such a large-scale event despite international instability demonstrates the resilience of the platform and the country’s readiness to engage with global partners.
In addition to the Prime Minister’s address, the Sultan of Perak, Sultan Nazrin Shah, is scheduled to deliver a keynote speech at the Putrajaya Forum, themed “ASEAN Security in the Age of Emerging Technologies”.
This forum is expected to provide insights into how Southeast Asia can adapt to rapid technological advancements in defence and security.
Malaysia’s defence industry is also seeking to expand its footprint in the global supply chain. Local firms are already producing components for aircraft, ammunition, and flare systems, with ambitions to manufacture artillery systems. This reflects a shift from being agents to recognised manufacturers in the international defence sector.
The four-day exhibition runs until 23 April 2026, with expectations of forging new partnerships and strengthening Malaysia’s position as a neutral, strategic hub for defence and security cooperation.
