KUALA LUMPUR, Oct 31 — Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin today called on Asean to evolve its collective defence strategy to keep pace with modern threats that no longer respect borders or dimensions.
He said the region must expand its focus beyond traditional military concerns, noting that the next frontier of conflict lies in cyberspace and technology.
“The ADMM must evolve with the times because threats today transcend borders and dimensions,” he said in his opening remarks at the 19th Asean Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) held here at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre.
He said while challenges in the South China Sea remain a concern, Asean nations must also recognise that their digital realms are “equally at risk”.
“The threats that test our networks and systems may be invisible, but they are just as dangerous as those threatening our maritime zones.
“Whether on land, at sea, or in cyberspace, we cannot afford to ignore any front of our security anymore,” he said.
Khaled warned that powerful non-state actors are now using technology as a weapon to disrupt societies, topple governments, and undermine critical infrastructure through cyberattacks, misinformation, and digital manipulation.
“If we fail to invest against these threats, we fail to secure our future. Therefore, the ADMM must go beyond traditional military cooperation,” he said.
“Peace in our seas, the digital domain, and cyberspace is not just Asean’s concern. It is a global responsibility,” he said.
Khaled added that Asean must continue to play a leading role in ensuring stability and security in the region through the ADMM framework.
“Within our region, Asean, through the ADMM, must remain at the centre, to lead, safeguard, and secure this region,” he said.
