Hong kong: The bustling city was illuminated with a spectacular fireworks show as it celebrated the Year of the Horse. Meanwhile, in South Korea, a significant event in the realm of international defence cooperation unfolded. Standing less than five metres away from a fighter jet that will soon bear a Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) roundel, the moment felt both surreal and deeply personal.
According to BERNAMA News Agency, foreign journalists partaking in the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism (MCST) International Journalist Invitation Programme were granted exclusive access to Korea Aerospace Industries (KAI) in Sacheon, South Korea. Here, they witnessed the assembly of the FA-50M Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) ordered by Malaysia. This aircraft, which already displayed the Malaysian flag on its tail, is set to bolster Malaysia's air defence by the end of 2026 as KAI has committed to delivering four FA-50M aircraft to the RMAF.
The facility, reminiscent of a car manufacturing plant, showcased the assembly line of fighter jets, marking the future of Malaysia's air power. Although photography was prohibited due to security measures, the sight of the FA-50M in the hangar left a lasting impression on the attendees. Beyond the FA-50 programme, KAI's extensive capabilities include fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft, satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles, and more. They serve as a Tier-1 partner to aerospace giants like Airbus and Boeing.
The programme also featured a visit to Hanwha Ocean's shipyard in Geoje, one of the world's largest and most advanced shipbuilding facilities. Spanning five square kilometres and employing over 31,000 people, the shipyard's scale amazed the journalists. Hanwha Ocean has been a cornerstone of South Korea's naval capabilities, delivering over 1,400 vessels, including 114 naval ships since 1973.
Continuing the exploration of South Korea's defence industry, journalists visited Hyundai Rotem in Changwon. This company, initially with no history of main battle tank production, has evolved into a global exporter of the K2 Black Panther main battle tank. Hyundai Rotem is now investing in future combat technologies, including artificial intelligence and autonomous systems.
At Hanwha Aerospace, following a major merger in April 2023, the company is expanding into global markets. Known for manufacturing the K9 Thunder self-propelled howitzer, Hanwha Aerospace provided journalists with a firsthand experience aboard this artillery system.
The programme also included a showcase of Korea's maritime prowess at HD Hyundai Heavy Industries in Ulsan. As the world's largest shipyard operator, the company has built 108 naval vessels and exported 20 of them. Their achievements include Aegis-class destroyers and Korea's first indigenous warship, the Ulsan-class frigate.
The final stop was LIG Nex1 in Gumi, a leading supplier of advanced weapon systems. Known for the K-SAAM or HAEGUNG missile system, LIG Nex1 is looking forward to collaborations with Malaysian industries regarding the 'MERAD - Medium Range Air Defense' programme led by RMAF.
The programme, initiated by the Korean Culture and Information Service (KOCIS) Centre, highlighted South Korea's integration of culture, security, and industry. For journalists, these experiences provided invaluable context and a human connection beyond mere press releases.