Malaysia Ready to Deploy One Battalion to Gaza, Awaiting Security Clearance: Defense Minister Khaled Nordin

KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 30: Malaysia is ready to deploy one battalion of troops to Gaza to assist in reconstruction and ensure security, Defense Minister Datuk Seri Khaled Nordin announced on Wednesday. He said the government is now only waiting for final approval from the relevant security authorities.

Speaking to reporters after inspecting preparations for the upcoming ASEAN and ASEAN Plus Defense Ministers’ Meetings, Khaled Nordin said, “Malaysia and the ASEAN bloc believe in peace and stability, not war or violence. Standing with the people of Gaza is our moral responsibility.”

He further expressed optimism that the upcoming meeting between U.S. President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping in South Korea would produce a constructive and consensus-based outcome amid growing trade and security tensions between the two superpowers.

“We believe that an understanding between the United States and China will help ease global tensions and pave the way for peace,” he added.

Addressing recent developments in the region, Khaled also noted that Malaysia’s Chief of Army Staff is closely monitoring the implementation of the ceasefire declaration between Thailand and Cambodia to ensure continued regional stability.

The Defense Minister revealed that during the ASEAN and ASEAN Plus Defense Ministers’ meetings, over 50 new Memoranda of Understanding (MoUs) related to defense cooperation are expected to be signed.

“These MoUs will not only strengthen defense collaboration but also enhance humanitarian assistance, peacekeeping, and regional security cooperation,” Khaled said.

Analysts view Malaysia’s readiness to send troops to Gaza as a continuation of the nation’s longstanding humanitarian and peacekeeping commitment on the global stage.

-voice of malaysia news