KUCHING: Sarawak has the potential to become a significant player in the country’s defense industry based on the progress achieved to date.
According to the commander of the Eastern Field Command of the Army, Lieutenant General Datuk Mohd Sofi Md Lepi, the potential is immense because Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg also has a broad view in strengthening defense in Sarawak besides advancing the state’s economy.
“We feel very fortunate because through the Sarawak Defense Package offered by the Sarawak Premier, it helps us to obtain equipment using existing technology.”
Lt-Gen Mohd Sofi said this when met by the media after paying a courtesy call on Head of State Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi Tuanku Jaafar at the Astana Negeri Sarawak here on Friday (April 26).
He added that Wan Junaidi has expressed his desire for the defense sector in Sarawak to be enhanced and contribute to the country’s defense.
“According to Tun Pehin Sri Dr Wan Junaidi’s desire earlier, with our developments in Bintulu and our developments in Sarawak in terms of hydrogen economy and so on, I am confident that the Sarawak government will have a big plan to contribute to the country’s defense industry.”
Lt-Gen Mohd Sofi said the visit also aimed to invite Wan Junaidi to attend the 18th edition of the Defense and Security Asia (DSA) Exhibition, which will take place from May 6 to May 9, 2024 at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur.
“In this edition, the organisers expect the participation of more than 50,000 visitors from over 70 countries involving 1,200 exhibitors.
“Besided that, it is expected that 400 foreign delegations from 45 countries, including ministers, top military leaders, senior government officials, and related agencies from within and outside the country, will also be present.”
DSA is a leading biennial event in the defense and security industry in the Asian region.
It serves as an important platform for industry players from around the world to gather, interact, and share views in strengthening the global defense industry and raising the country’s profile internationally.
