Malaysia stands by companies supplying weapons to Israel at defence show

Malaysia’s Defence Minister Stands Firm on Arms Trade Amid Protests

Malaysia’s Defence Minister, Khaled Nordin, made it clear on Tuesday that the country will not interfere in business relations between arms manufacturers and other nations, despite protests demanding the expulsion of companies supplying weapons to Israel from an international exhibition.

The Defence Services Asia and National Security Asia exhibitions, co-organised by Malaysia’s Defence Ministry and Home Affairs Ministry, have attracted more than 1,300 companies from 60 countries. However, the presence of US weapons maker Lockheed Martin and European missile manufacturer MBDA, among others, sparked outrage from the Solidarity for Palestinian coalition.

Protesters accused the manufacturers of complicity in Israel’s actions in Gaza, calling on the Malaysian government to take a stand against what they deemed as “murderous arm dealers.” However, Minister Nordin emphasized that Malaysia supports Palestinian statehood but also values free trade.

“We oppose all forms of injustice against the Palestinian people, but this exhibition is a platform for the defense industry to showcase technology and enhance defense capabilities,” Nordin stated.

Despite calls from former Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad to expel the arms suppliers, Nordin reiterated that Malaysia will not interfere in the business relationships of global defense companies. The exhibition has seen participation from various Islamic countries, highlighting the complexities of balancing political stances with economic interests in the international arms trade.