KUALA LUMPUR: The Asean Defence Ministers' Meeting-Plus (ADMM-Plus) exists to give the bloc a voice on global security issues, and to better understand the evolving landscape beyond this region.
Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said with direct participation of partners from across the world, Asean engages, exchanges and contributes to its perspectives through ADMM-Plus.
"This forum allows us to state clearly that this region remains a zone of peace, freedom, and neutrality, not a stage for strategic rivalry.
"Guided by Asean centrality, our regional security architecture must remain Asean-led, inclusive, and rooted in dialogue, consensus, and respect for international law," he said in his opening remarks for the 12th ADMM-Plus on Saturday (Nov 1).
The ADMM-Plus is not a stage to avoid difficult discussions, he added.
"Instead, it is a space to confront them with honesty, respect, and a shared sense of purpose.
"To our partners, the message is clear. Keep engaging Asean through our values, our principles, and our commitment to peace.
"Respect the norms we have built and honour your commitments and uphold the enduring spirit of the Treaty of Amity and Cooperation," he stressed.
Today the world faces challenges that transcend borders, from cyberattacks to climate shocks, from food insecurity to pandemics, Mohamed Khaled said.
"Powerful non-state actors in cyberspace are capable of disrupting societies, dismantling critical systems, and even destabilising governments.
"At the same time, climate change and natural disasters test our resilience every day," he added.
Such challenges are not distant as they are currently happening, he said.
"That is why our unity and cooperation through the ADMM-Plus are more vital now than ever.
"Together, we can respond, adapt, and safeguard the security and prosperity of our region, in unity and synergy. Above all, there is one thing we must uphold international law," he said.
Mohamed Khaled also expressed Malaysia's deep concern over the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza and Palestine, where starvation and deprivation are being used as weapons of war.
"Malaysia urges all nations, especially major powers, to exercise their influence in accordance with international law.
"In this context, Malaysia welcomes the United States’ Comprehensive Plan to end the conflict in Gaza," he said.
Among those present for the ADMM-Plus were US Secretary of War Pete Hegseth, Indonesian Defence Minister Jeneral (R) Sjafrie Sjamsoeddin and Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi.
