Riyadh: Malaysia's participation in the World Defense Show (WDS) 2026 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, provides insight into global defence technology and innovation, while fostering strategic collaboration, said Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, WDS 2026 convenes official delegations, government agencies, as well as defence and security companies from around the world, to showcase the latest technologies and innovations in the defence sector. The event offers valuable insights for Malaysia, especially as the country advances its self-reliance through the National Defence Industry Policy (DIPN), launched by Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim on January 21.

Global defence leaders are leveraging this platform to hold meetings and strengthen strategic cooperation. The third edition of the exhibition, held from February 8 to 12, is organised under the patronage of King Salman Abdulaziz Al Saud of Saudi Arabia and managed by the General Authority for Military Industries (GAMI).

Mohamed Khaled noted that WDS 2026 reflects the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030 in developing a comprehensive national defence industry, including efforts to increase local content to over 50 per cent of military expenditure and strengthen defence capabilities. Previous media reports indicated that Malaysia and Saudi Arabia are set to sign a defence cooperation agreement during Mohamed Khaled's official visit to the country, which began on Saturday.

In a separate post, Mohamed Khaled mentioned meeting with Azerbaijan's Defence Industry Minister, Vugar Mustafayev. This was their second meeting, following their first encounter at the International Defence Industry Fair (IDEF) 2025 in Istanbul, Turkey, last July. Malaysia welcomes closer defence cooperation with Azerbaijan, as both countries share similar aspirations in developing their local defence industries and are committed to strengthening security and stability.