Malaysia Defense and Security

Opportunities are growing for U.S. firms providing defense and security solutions to Malaysian enforcement agencies.

In its latest budget, the government of Malaysia increased its allocation for defense and security to strengthen the level of defense readiness and national security.

The recently announced 2024 budget includes $4.2 billion for the Ministry of Defense (MoD), a 10 percent increase from 2023.  In addition to the MoD allocation, Malaysia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, responsible for public order, border and maritime security, crime, and terrorism prevention, has been allocated $4.1 billion.

With the increased allocation, Malaysia has identified acquisitions of particular importance.   These include 60 armored infantry vehicles, 50 light tactical vehicles, six hovercraft, and hundreds of support vehicles for the Army.  The Royal Malaysian Air Force intends to purchase 12 helicopters.  Maritime capabilities are also due for an upgrade, including refurbishing two submarines and acquiring 45 boats of various types for the Army, nine patrol boats, interceptor boats for the Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency, and three littoral mission ships for the Royal Malaysian Navy.

If you represent a U.S. company in the defense and security sectors and want to learn more about these and other opportunities in Malaysia, please contact Senior Commercial Specialist Siau Wei Pung at office.kualalumpur@trade.gov