The Defence Services Asia (DSA) and National Security Asia (NatSec Asia) 2018 exhibitions which began today is proof of foreigner’s confidence in Malaysia’s stability in Southeast Asia.

Incumbent defence minister Hishammuddin Hussein said although various accusations had been hurled at Malaysia, the organising of an event like this showed that the country was still in a strong position and capable of attracting numerous foreign sponsors.

“I am very happy with what I am seeing today. The commitment from the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) and the defence industry as a whole is very impressive as there are many foreign guests and they are showing keen interest to join us in this edition of the DSA.

“This shows that they have confidence in Malaysia’s stability, which is translated into the stability of the region,” he told reporters after touring the exhibition area at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur.

The four-day exhibition gathers around 1,500 defence-related companies and 350 delegates from 45 countries.

It is expected to attract 40,000 visitors and become the platform for top management of defence and security around the world to exchange ideas, besides providing the industry players with opportunities to market their products.

The opening of the 16th edition of the DSA was officiated by caretaker deputy prime minister Ahmad Zahid Hamidi yesterday.

DSA is a biennial event held since 1988.

- Bernama