ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Forum Strengthens Regional Voice on Global Security, Says Khaled

KUALA LUMPUR, November 1: The ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) continues to play a vital role in strengthening ASEAN’s collective voice on global security issues, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin during his opening remarks at the 12th ADMM-Plus held in Kuala Lumpur on Saturday.

Khaled emphasized that the ADMM-Plus serves as a key platform for ASEAN to engage directly with global partners, exchange perspectives, and contribute to shaping the international security dialogue.

“This forum allows us to state clearly that this region remains a zone of peace, freedom, and neutrality, not a stage for strategic rivalry,” he said. He underscored that ASEAN Centrality must remain at the heart of the region’s security architecture, ensuring it stays ASEAN-led, inclusive, and rooted in dialogue, consensus, and respect for international law.

“The ADMM-Plus is not a stage to avoid difficult discussions,” Khaled added. “It is a space to confront them with honesty, respect, and a shared sense of purpose.”

Khaled also urged ASEAN’s dialogue partners to remain engaged through shared principles of peace and cooperation.

“Respect the norms we have built, honor your commitments, and uphold the enduring spirit of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation,” he stressed.

Addressing Cross-Border Security Challenges

Highlighting the complex and fast-evolving nature of global threats, Khaled noted that the world is now facing challenges that transcend national borders, from cyberattacks and climate change to food insecurity and pandemics.

“Powerful non-state actors in cyberspace are capable of disrupting societies, dismantling critical systems, and even destabilizing governments,” he warned.

“At the same time, climate change and natural disasters test our resilience every day.”

Khaled said these issues are no longer distant or abstract; they are happening now and require greater regional unity and cooperation.

“That is why our partnership through ADMM-Plus is more vital than ever. Together, we can respond, adapt, and safeguard the security and prosperity of our region,” he said.

He also reaffirmed that upholding international law must remain ASEAN’s guiding principle in all collective efforts.

Malaysia’s Call for Peace and Humanitarian Responsibility

Turning to the humanitarian crisis in the Middle East, Khaled expressed Malaysia’s deep concern over the ongoing tragedy in Gaza and Palestine, condemning the use of starvation and deprivation as weapons of war.

“Malaysia urges all nations, especially major powers, to exercise their influence in accordance with international law,” he said.

“In this context, Malaysia welcomes the United States’ Comprehensive Plan to end the conflict in Gaza.”

High-Level Participation Reflects Global Significance

This year’s ADMM-Plus brought together top defense leaders from across the region and beyond, including U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Indonesian Defence Minister General (R) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin, and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi.

The 12th ADMM-Plus, hosted under the theme “ASEAN Unity for Security and Prosperity,” also marks the forum’s 15th anniversary, highlighting ASEAN’s enduring role in promoting dialogue, trust, and cooperation in regional and global security affairs.

Voice of Malaysia News will continue to provide coverage of key developments from the 12th ADMM-Plus in Kuala Lumpur.