Although Malaysia is friendly with all parties, he said, it cannot avoid being affected by conflicts among the major powers, which can cause disruptions to the supply chain and threaten security.
“Trade wars, tariff hikes, and the defence technology race have all climbed atop many great powers’ national agenda. In light of these rivalries, Malaysia cannot simply remain a passive observer, nor can we issue the usual de-escalation statements and consider everything as being business as usual.
“Power struggles between major powers will inevitably impact us with various pressures and effects, hence our readiness goes beyond just preparing a superior defence fleet,” he told reporters after the National Centre for Defence Studies (PuspaHanas) graduation ceremony today.
Khaled said non-traditional threats such as climate change, natural disasters and technological advancements also posed a challenge that the country had to face.
As such, he said, Malaysia must take steps to ensure its defence is future-proof by multiplying investments in providing an advanced military organisation in terms of technology.
He said the government, through the defence ministry, has taken note of this requirement in efforts to modernise and equip the assets of the armed forces.
It is also striving to improve defence spending to ensure the country is ready to face any threats to security.
“This government understands that even in peaceful times, there is a cost to fund national peace. As such, the government annually increases allocations for the defence sector,” he said.
Khaled said diplomacy plays a crucial role when it comes to national defence, especially as Malaysia adopts a “friends with all” policy.
“Diplomacy is not dead. We still rely on it. We will continue using diplomacy when we face challenges, not only in the South China Sea but also in every aspect of national defence,” he said.
Earlier, Khaled officiated the presentation of course certificates and badges to 270 armed forces personnel, foreign military personnel as well as diplomatic services officers who successfully completed their studies.
It involved graduates from the National Resilience College, the Malaysian Armed Forces Defence College and the Malaysian Armed Forces Staff College.