Sabah defence upgrades not a response to Philippine military build-up, says Khaled

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin (front row, 4th left) poses for a photograph after witnessing the arrival of the Royal Malaysian Air Force’s (RMAF) first FA-50M light combat aircraft from South Korea during its transit at Labuan Air Base on October 30, 2026. — Bernama pic

First Published: Friday, 30 Oct 2026 6:40 PM MYT

LABUAN, Oct 30 — Malaysia will continue strengthening its military capabilities in Sabah to safeguard national security amid regional geopolitical developments, but the move is not a direct response to the Philippines’ military build-up on Balabac Island, Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said.

He said every country has the right to enhance its defence capabilities, and Malaysia was similarly committed to ensuring its armed forces remained prepared for any potential escalation of regional tensions.

“Every country has the right to strengthen its military capabilities, and Malaysia will do the same. However, our efforts are not a reaction to what the Philippines is doing in its southern region, but part of our preparations to ensure that any escalation of tensions will have minimal impact on Malaysia,” he told reporters after receiving the FA-50M aircrafts from South Korea at the Labuan Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base here.

Khaled was commenting on the Philippine government’s efforts to strengthen military facilities on Balabac Island in southern Palawan, which has been designated as a military cooperation site accessible to the United States forces.

Khaled said strengthening Malaysia’s defence capabilities, particularly in Sabah, remained a key priority of the Defence Ministry.

He said the ministry would determine the number of FA-50M light combat aircraft to be stationed at the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) base in Labuan following the planned decommissioning of Hawk fighter aircraft in 2028.

“Once the Hawk aircraft are phased out in 2028, we will determine how many FA-50M aircraft will be stationed at the Labuan air base,” he said.

He said the government had also decided to install new radar systems in Sabah, including on Layang-Layang Island, to enhance surveillance and early detection capabilities.

“The ministry would also increase military personnel in Sabah, where more than 10,000 troops are currently stationed, while new military camps have been developed to strengthen operational readiness,” he said.

Khaled reiterated that the initiatives were part of Malaysia’s continuing efforts to reinforce national defence and protect its sovereignty, rather than a response to military developments in neighbouring countries. — Bernama