MALAYSIA and Thailand will sign a defence cooperation Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) this year as both countries seek to enhance regional security and expand collaboration in the development of their defence industries.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said both sides had agreed to accelerate efforts to finalise the agreement, allowing bilateral defence cooperation to be elevated to a more strategic and comprehensive level.
"One of the main focuses under the MoU is the effort to develop local defence industries that can benefit both countries.
"Among the matters raised was for the defence cooperation MoU between Malaysia and Thailand to be signed this year," he said.
Khaled was speaking at a press conference after attending an introductory visit by Thailand's Defence Minister Lieutenant General Adul Boonthumjaroen at the Ministry of Defence on Tuesday.
He said Malaysia and Thailand, as neighbouring countries and members of ASEAN, must continue maintaining close relations, particularly in defence, as both nations face shared security challenges.
"Both countries also share the responsibility of upholding ASEAN principles to ensure Southeast Asia remains peaceful, stable and prosperous.
"We have always emphasised the ASEAN approach in resolving any disputes or challenges faced, and that is why we welcome this visit to further strengthen defence cooperation between both countries," he said.
During the meeting, both sides also discussed border surveillance and security cooperation carried out through the Malaysia-Thailand General Border Committee (GBC).
Khaled said the cooperation was crucial in ensuring that the shared border remained secure from threats including smuggling, illegal entry and other activities that could undermine the security of both countries.
"Malaysia will host the 57th GBC Meeting this year, which is expected to discuss various issues including border security, joint military operations, socio-economic development in border areas and disaster management," he said.
He added that Malaysia welcomed the continued participation of Thai military officers in the Malaysia Defence Cooperation Programme (MDCP), which aims to strengthen defence diplomacy and enhance professional ties between military personnel from both countries.
"Through this programme, Thai military officers have the opportunity to participate in various courses and training programmes in Malaysia, while creating cooperation networks between officers from both countries," he said.
Meanwhile, Mohamed a as the new Head of Dialogue for the Southern Thailand Peace Process.
He said Malaysia would continue providing cooperation and support for efforts to promote peace and stability in southern Thailand.
"We support efforts to ensure that southern Thailand remains peaceful and stable, and hope this new appointment will help advance the ongoing peace process," he said.
The planned defence MoU reflects Malaysia and Thailand's broader commitment to strengthening bilateral security cooperation while reinforcing ASEAN's role in maintaining peace and stability across Southeast Asia. - July 14, 2026
