Singapore Reaffirms Commitment to Regional Security at ADMM Retreat in Malaysia
During the ADMM Retreat in Malaysia, Defence Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen stressed the importance of regional cooperation in addressing security challenges related to AI and Critical Underwater Infrastructure. Ministers endorsed joint efforts to enhance military capabilities in CUI protection and released a Joint Statement on AI in the defence sector. Bilateral meetings further emphasized strong defense ties between Singapore and its regional partners.
At the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat held in Penang, Malaysia, Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen underscored the significance of regional cooperation in tackling emerging security challenges, particularly in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Critical Underwater Infrastructure (CUI) security. Dr. Ng encouraged the ADMM and its Plus partners to maintain a forward-focused approach and collaborate effectively in these domains, recognizing the vulnerabilities of underwater infrastructures and the important role militaries play in safeguarding them.
The ASEAN Defence Ministers collectively acknowledged the necessity of enhancing the military understanding and capabilities related to CUI protection, citing the potential disruptions that could affect these critical infrastructures. They voiced support for a joint discussion paper submitted by Singapore and Thailand aimed at fostering deeper cooperation among ASEAN armed forces regarding CUI security, especially in response efforts.
Furthermore, a Joint Statement on Cooperation in AI within the Defence Sector was released by the Ministers, emphasizing the broader ASEAN initiatives addressing AI implications and advocating for its responsible and accountable use in defense. It was also decided that Germany and Türkiye will observe the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Groups, reflecting the necessity of global partnerships in addressing security issues.
In his remarks following the meeting, Dr. Ng reiterated the importance of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus as central platforms for addressing both present and emerging regional security challenges, advocating for increased ASEAN unity and solidarity. He remarked, “It reflects well on ADMM, it reflects well on this regional grouping, and we look forward to cooperating with our other ASEAN members to strengthen our regional network.”
During the ADMM Retreat, Dr. Ng held discussions with Malaysia’s Minister of Defence, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, reaffirming the long-standing defense relations between Singapore and Malaysia and exploring avenues for enhancing bilateral defense cooperation. He also met with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, to deepen ties and collaboration on both bilateral and multilateral fronts.
The ADMM serves as a critical framework for regional security, facilitating trust and practical cooperation among its ten member nations. Through strategic dialogue and collaborative efforts, the ADMM strengthens regional peace and security, enabling constructive responses to shared challenges.
The ADMM Retreat highlighted Singapore’s strong commitment to regional security collaboration, emphasizing the importance of addressing emerging challenges such as AI and CUI security. With the collective support from ASEAN Defence Ministers, initiatives for cooperation and increased military capacities in these areas were endorsed, reflecting a unified commitment to regional resilience. Ongoing discussions with bilateral partners further reflect the dedication to enhancing defense relations across Southeast Asia.
Original Source: www.mindef.gov.sg