LABUAN, Oct 30 (Bernama) -- Malaysia will continue strengthening its military capabilities in Sabah to safeguard national security amid regional geopolitical developments, but the move is not a direct response to the Philippines' military build-up on Balabac Island, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said.
Malaysia's Defence Strengthening In Sabah Not In Response To Military Build-up By The Philippines - Khaled
Mohamed Khaled Nordin, geopolitical, security, mil
Key takeaways
Malaysia's Defence Minister stated that strengthening military capabilities in Sabah is a routine security measure, not a direct response to Philippine military activities on Balabac Island. The ministry plans to replace Hawk jets with FA-50M aircraft and install new radar systems to enhance regional surveillance.
- Defence Minister Khaled Nordin denied that Sabah's military upgrades are a reaction to Philippine build-ups on Balabac Island.
- Malaysia will determine the number of FA-50M aircraft stationed in Labuan after Hawk jets are decommissioned in 2028.
- New radar systems will be installed in Sabah, including on Layang-Layang Island, to improve surveillance and early detection.
Summarised automatically by AI from the original article by Bernama. AI can make mistakes, so check the original for details.
Also reported by Malay Mail
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