The Defence Sevices Asia (DSA) & NATSEC ASIA exhibition is one the most significant events in the world of defence and security, particularly in Southeast Asia. These exhibitions bring together military officials and defence industry stakeholders from around the globe biennially in the Malaysian capital, Kuala Lumpur, to showcase the latest technologies and innovations in the fields of defence and security.
These exhibitions play a vital role in enhancing cooperation and defence capabilities among nations. Moreover, they serve as prominent platforms for introducing the latest technological advancements in the military and security domains, encouraging collaboration and knowledge exchange among relevant companies and institutions. To get a closer look at the key features and highlights of DSA & NATSEC ASIA 2024, “Al Jundi” Journal interviewed Mr Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin, the Chairman of the Asian Defence Services Exhibition, who shared insights in the following dialogue:
Tell us about the Defence Services ASIA 2024 (DSA 2024) Malaysia and the new features that the exhibition will offer this year.
DSA and NATSEC Asia 2024 are hosted, supported, and co-organised by the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Home Affairs (KDN) on a biennial basis.
This event is the largest defence and homeland security exhibition in Southeast Asia.
The exhibition features displays highlighting defence equipment and state-of-the-art technology, complemented by presentations on the latest weaponry systems and safety solutions, catering to the varied needs of the Armed Forces, Police Forces, Homeland Security Agencies and Law Enforcement Agencies.
This event also marks the third edition of NATSEC Asia which is held concurrently with DSA 2024 to attract greater participation among security practitioners and players in the global Defence and Security industries.
The goal of this program is to bring together key international stakeholders to meet, interact, and exchange ideas aimed at strengthening the global defence industry, while also elevating Malaysia’s standing on the world stage.
With the theme “Building National Resilience for the Next Generation,” DSA and NATSEC Asia 2024 will take place from May 6 to May 9, 2024, at the Malaysian International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC), Kuala Lumpur.
We are introducing several enhancements to this year’s edition including:
• DSA & NATSEC ASIA LAB: A platform that provides opportunities for small enterprises and startups to showcase their innovations, products, and services. This platform not only allows them to present their capabilities to potential customers but also opens doors to attract investors or collaborate with global companies for international market expansion.
• FUTURE FORCES SEGMENT: A groundbreaking new segment with a primary focus on innovation, technology, AI and tactical data, the Future Forces segment is set to revolutionize the way forces engage in modern warfare that requires technology integration, multi-domain operation, net-centric warfare, stealth, and precision.
• DSA & NATSEC ASIA TV: A media channel that will cover DSA and NATSEC Asia 2024’s daily activities. This platform provides the latest updates on the industry, featuring interviews with captains of industries as well as delegations.
• UAV, Drone, and Robotics Pavilion: This pavilion is a collaborative effort with the National Aerospace Industry Corporation (NAICO) Malaysia, featuring several local companies. It aims to give them a platform to demonstrate their capabilities, expertise, and innovations in drone technology, AI, and robotics in defence and security systems.
Who should be an exhibitor at DSA & NATSEC Asia 2024?
DSA & NATSEC Asia 2024 is the premier platform for professionals and businesses operating in the defence and security sectors. Ideal exhibitors for this event are those engaged in cutting-edge technologies, innovative solutions, and advanced equipment in the following areas:
Land, Airborne and Sea Platforms, Surveillance Systems & Equipment
Battlefield Healthcare
Command, Control, Communication & Information Technologies
Research & Development, Design Consultancy, Training, and Services
Electronics, Systems, and Equipment
Uniforms, Protective Equipment, and Body Accessories
Special Equipment & Miscellaneous
Safety & Security Equipment
CBRNE Equipment
Optics & Optronics
Propulsion Systems
Maritime Platforms, Systems & Equipment
Weapons, Weapon Systems, Ammunition & Explosives
Unmanned Systems and Robotics
Although DSA & NATSEC Asia 2024 is sold out, bookings for 2026 are already underway. We invite all businesses and organisations across these sectors to consider joining us in 2026, where you can showcase your innovations, connect with industry leaders, and engage with a global audience interested in defence and security advancements.
What are your expectations for the DSA & NATSEC ASIA 2024 in general and the size of the local and international participation in this session?
We are thrilled to share that our expectations for DSA & NATSEC ASIA 2024 have been greatly exceeded. This year’s event is set to be our largest yet, with over 13٢٤ participating companies from 60 countries and a total of 48,000 square meters of occupied Area at MITEC Kuala Lumpur.
This represents a significant 30% increase in exhibition space compared to our 2022 edition, which covered 38,600 square meters and had 1,096 companies from 49 countries.
Additionally, DSA & NATSEC ASIA 2024 will feature 34 international country pavilions, showcasing a diverse range of technologies and innovations from around the world. Among the largest pavilions are those from Turkey, China, the UAE, Italy, and the United States of America.
These numbers reflect the growing importance of DSA & NATSEC ASIA as a premier event in the defence and security industry, attracting top-level participants and exhibitors from all over the globe.
We’re excited to welcome such a large and diverse group of industry leaders and innovators to Kuala Lumpur, where we anticipate a dynamic and impactful event.
How do you see the participation of defence companies in the exhibition and what’s new in this regard?
As mentioned, the participation of defence companies in DSA & NATSEC ASIA 2024 has exceeded all expectations. This growth in country pavilions underscores the broadening scope and global interest in the exhibition.
The increased participation and the variety of exhibitors suggest that defence companies are enthusiastic about showcasing their latest technologies and innovations.
This year’s event will spotlight cutting-edge developments in defence and security, fostering collaborations and offering unique networking opportunities. It has become a pivotal platform for industry stakeholders to connect, share insights, and explore the latest trends.
With such strong participation and a significant increase in international representation, DSA & NATSEC ASIA 2024 is set to be a dynamic and impactful event, providing attendees with unparalleled opportunities to engage with leading defence companies from around the globe.
Where do you see the location of DSA & NATSEC Asia 2024 on the map of international defence and security exhibitions?
DSA & NATSEC Asia 2024 is the ultimate tri-services and homeland security event in Asia, placing it firmly on the map of similar major international exhibitions. Held in Malaysia’s capital, the exhibition is a prime gathering point for the global defence and security community.
What sets DSA & NATSEC Asia apart is its focus on all branches of the armed forces and homeland security. This unique combination attracts leading defence and security companies, high-level government officials, and international delegations, providing a comprehensive view of military and security advancements.
In summary, DSA & NATSEC Asia 2024 is a key event on the international defence exhibitions calendar, known for its tri-services orientation and strong international presence, offering attendees unparalleled opportunities to connect with industry leaders and explore the latest trends in defence and homeland security.
Do you have any message that you would like to send to the readers through Al-Jundi Journal?
I call on all defence and security enthusiasts to take part in the event to benefit from its exclusive access to key decision-makers and engage with government ministers, secretary generals, chiefs of services, international delegations, and other high-ranking officials who play pivotal roles in defence and security. It constitutes a unique opportunity to build connections with influential figures and communicate with the defence and security sectors, enabling various parties to meet with a wide range of professionals and experts from the defence and security sectors.
Moreover, this global event features high-level conferences and discussions, offering a rich program of international conferences, round table talks, B2B meetings, forums, product live demonstrations, and dialogue sessions. These events are designed to promote learning, exchange ideas, and foster industry collaborations.
Furthermore, DSA & NATSEC Asia form the largest defence and homeland security Event in Asia, offering an ideal environment to exchange ideas, establish partnerships, and explore innovative solutions.
Profile:
- Tan Sri Asmat Kamaludin.
- Chairman of Defence Services Asia.
- He graduated from the University of Malaya with a Bachelor (Honors) degree in Economics.
- He holds a Diploma in European Economic Integration from the University of Amsterdam.
- He has 36 years of experience in public service and his last position was the Secretary General of the Ministry of International Trade & Industry Malaysia, which he held since May 1992.
- Prior to his retirement in 2001, he served as a Board member of the Malaysia Technology Development Corporation, Multimedia Development Corporation, Malaysian Trade Development Corporation, Permodalan Nasional Berhad, Small and Medium Industries Development Corporation and Perbadanan Johor.
- He served as the Senior Economic Counselor for Malaysia in Brussels and worked with several international bodies such as the Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN), World Trade Organisation (WTO) and Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC), representing Malaysia in relevant negotiation and agreements.
» Interviewed by: «Al Jundi»
