KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 31 — Asean defence ministers today approved the largest number of initiatives ever recorded in a single year during a smooth and cordial 19th Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) here in Kuala Lumpur.
The two-hour meeting, chaired by Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, concluded with what he described as “all peaceful”, a phrase he casually told reporters while heading back into the hall after a brief coffee break.
In his closing remarks, Khaled said this year has been “nothing short of extraordinary,” calling it one of the most productive and inspiring periods in ADMM’s history.
“Together, we have approved the largest number of initiatives ever achieved in a single year,” he said.
Among the key outcomes were the adoption of the Joint Statement on the Implementation of the Asean Political-Security Community Strategic Plan under the Asean Community Vision 2045, and the Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration on Asean Unity for Security and Prosperity.
“These documents are living proof of our shared commitment to a peaceful, stable, and forward-looking Asean,” Khaled said, adding that the ADMM has proven to be more than just a forum of formality.
“It is a vibrant community of purpose and progress,” he said.
The Kuala Lumpur Joint Declaration was handed over to Asean Secretary-General Dr Kao Kim Hourn following the conclusion of the meeting.
Khaled said the meeting underscored that Asean’s strength lies not in power or dominance, but in “partnership and dialogue.”
“It is this spirit of cooperation over competition, of solidarity over separation, that keeps our region stable and our future secure,” he said.
He urged defence ministers to remain guided by the principle of “Asean First,” calling for continued unity and mutual trust among member states.
“Peace is not automatic. It must be actively built, protected, and renewed — together as one Asean family,” he said.
As the ministers prepare to convene tomorrow for the 12th ADMM-Plus alongside dialogue partners including the United States, China and Australia, Khaled said he hoped the same “spirit of unity and shared responsibility” will guide their discussions.
“May our unity and solidarity remain our strength and our shield, as we move forward together for security and prosperity,” he said.
Both the ADMM and the ADMM-Plus are being held from October 30 to November 2 at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
