Malaysia’s Defense Chief Addresses Protests at Defense Exhibition
Malaysia’s defense chief stated that the country will not interfere in business relations between arms manufacturers and other countries, following protests demanding the expulsion of companies supplying weapons to Israel from an international exhibition.
Defense Services Asia and National Security Asia Exhibitions
More than 1,300 companies from 60 nations are participating in the Defense Services Asia and National Security Asia exhibitions in Kuala Lumpur. These events are hosted and co-organized by Malaysia’s Defense and Home Affairs ministries.
Protests Against Arms Manufacturers
The Solidarity for Palestinian coalition protested outside the exhibition center against the presence of companies like Lockheed Martin and MBDA, accusing them of complicity in Israel’s offensive in Gaza.
The coalition’s stance is based on the inconsistency of these manufacturers’ presence with Malaysia’s support for Palestinian statehood and the sentiments of many Malaysians who oppose Israel’s actions in the Palestinian territories.
Muslims make up two-thirds of Malaysia’s population of 34 million people.
Call for Government Action
Coalition spokesman Tian Chua urged the Malaysian government to take a firm stand against the participation of these arm dealers in the exhibition.
Defense Minister’s Response
Defense Minister Khaled Nordin emphasized Malaysia’s opposition to injustice against the Palestinian people while also highlighting the country’s stance as a “free trade country.” He explained that the exhibition serves as a platform for the defense industry to showcase its latest technology and enhance defense preparedness for countries.
Khaled clarified that the exhibition does not show favoritism towards any specific country or company. He stated that Malaysia respects the business relationships of global defense companies with various countries and will not intervene in such matters.
Additionally, Khaled mentioned the participation of several Islamic countries in the exhibition, including Turkey, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Iran, and Pakistan.