KUALA LUMPUR: Representatives from the five member states of the Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) have reaffirmed their commitment to the FPDA and its fundamental principles of defence regulations.

This position was articulated by Malaysia, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, and the United Kingdom (UK) in a joint statement following the 22nd FPDA Defence Chiefs’ Conference (FDCC), hosted by Malaysia today.

According to the statement, the five countries also emphasised the importance of the FPDA as a transparent, constructive, and secure defense arrangement that contributes to the regional security landscape.”

At this conference, the Chiefs of Defense Forces of the FPDA member states have reaffirmed their commitment to the FPDA and its fundamental principles of defense regulations, as well as the importance of the 3R principles (Remit, Relevance, and Reassurance) as a guide for the development of FPDA.

“The FPDA member states will also continue to adapt to the evolving security challenges by enhancing operational capabilities in conventional warfare, as well as developing capacities in maritime security, counter-terrorism, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, as well as the cyber and information domain,” as stated by the Malaysian Armed Forces Headquarters today.

“The FDCC, held alternately between Malaysia and Singapore, is the highest-level military professional conference that provides a platform for the Chiefs of Defense Forces of FPDA member countries to engage in dialogue and cooperation within the FPDA framework.

In this conference, Malaysia was represented by the Chief of Defence Force, General Tan Sri Mohammad Ab Rahman. Also participating in this conference were the Chief of the Australian Defence Force, General Angus Campbell; the Chief of Defense Force of New Zealand, Air Marshal Kevin Short; the Chief of Defence Force of Singapore, Vice Admiral Aaron Beng; and the Deputy Chief of Defence Staff of the UK, General Gwyn Jenkins.

The statement further adds that the Chiefs of Defence Forces of FPDA member countries discussed strategies to enhance the value of FPDA exercises, based on the need for flexibility and adaptability in responding to the dynamic security landscape.

The conference also outlined a five-year roadmap for the advancement of FPDA, expected to drive the evolution of FPDA exercises and initiatives to enhance capacity for both conventional and non-conventional operations.

Furthermore, the successful execution of Exercise BERSAMA SHIELD 2023 and the positive feedback on the exercise demonstrated the unity and strength of FPDA member states in facing current challenges.”