The 18th Defence Services Asia (DSA) 2024 and National Security Asia (NATSEC Asia) 2024 exhibitions concluded yesterday at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, marking a historic milestone in global defence and security showcases.
This four-day biennial event, recognized as one of the world’s premier platforms for defence and security technologies, witnessed unparalleled success and participation. Drawing 1,324 companies from 60 countries, including 588 foreign VVIP delegations from 45 nations, it marked the highest participation recorded to date. Amidst the exhibitions, the Malaysian Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) inked 40 contracts valued at RM7.3 billion, while the Ministry of Home Affairs signed 14 contracts worth RM2.1 billion, amounting to a total value of RM9.4 billion.
DSA and NATSEC Asia 2024 solidified their pivotal role as platforms for exchanging cutting-edge defence and security technologies, fostering strategic partnerships, and facilitating business networking among global leaders in defence and security organizations. These exhibitions elevated Malaysia’s standing on the global stage, providing invaluable insights into industry developments and empowering armed forces and security personnel to effectively address emerging threats.
Reflecting on the success of the shows, Minister of Defence Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin emphasized the strength of international defence cooperation and the economic and strategic significance of the contracts signed during the event. Minister of Home Affairs Datuk Seri Saifuddin Nasution Ismail commended the growth of NATSEC Asia and its contributions to global security dialogue and cooperation.
DSA 2024 included meaningful events such as the Putrajaya Forum and the National Security International Seminar, addressing critical issues in defence and security. NATSEC Asia 2024 featured a combined seminar on cybercrime and substance abuse, chaired by the Minister of Home Affairs and the Malaysian Inspector General of Police.
Beyond defence-related exhibitions, DSA and NATSEC Asia fostered cross-border relationships and championed international cooperation. The events generated economic spinoffs of over RM700 million and supported the creation of more than 6,000 jobs for Malaysians across various industries.
Following the success, DSA Exhibition and Conference Sdn Bhd announced its pledge to support Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (UPNM) through the establishment of the DSA & NATSEC Asia Graduate Fund program, marking a historic first in the annals of DSA.
Looking ahead, the DSA & NATSEC Asia series will continue with DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026, scheduled for April 20-23, 2026, at MITEC. Stay tuned for updates on future editions of this globally renowned exhibition.
