Pakistan and Malaysia deepen defence cooperation after joint drills

Pakistan and Malaysia have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding defence and security cooperation following the conclusion of a joint counter-terrorism exercise in Pakistan.

The fourth edition of Exercise Harimau Markhor-IV concluded at the National Counter Terrorism Centre (NCTC) in Pabbi, Nowshera, after two weeks of military training. The exercise brought together the armed forces of both countries to exchange counter-terrorism expertise, improve operational procedures and enhance combat skills.

The training focused on sharing experiences, refining tactical drills and adopting best practices to improve the forces’ ability to respond to security threats. The exercise also highlighted the longstanding military partnership between Islamabad and Kuala Lumpur and their shared commitment to strengthening cooperation against terrorism.

Separately, Pakistan and Malaysia held the 16th meeting of their Joint Committee on Defence Cooperation (JCDC) at Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence. Both sides reviewed progress made since their previous meeting in 2025 and discussed ways to further strengthen bilateral defence and security relations.

Pakistan’s delegation was led by Secretary Defence Lieutenant General (retired) Muhammad Ali, while Malaysian Deputy Secretary General for Policy Mohd Yani bin Daud headed the host country’s delegation.

During the meeting, both delegations welcomed progress in defence cooperation and reaffirmed their commitment to maintaining close engagement on matters of mutual interest.

Pakistan and Malaysia have maintained diplomatic relations since 1957, when Malaysia gained independence. Their partnership has expanded over the years to include defence, trade, investment and other areas of cooperation.

During Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s visit to Malaysia last year, the two countries agreed to deepen collaboration in defence, trade and emerging technologies. Malaysia also agreed to import meat worth $200 million from Pakistan.

Economic relations between the two countries are supported by the Malaysia-Pakistan Closer Economic Partnership Agreement, signed in 2007. The agreement provides a framework for cooperation in trade, investment and several other sectors, including healthcare, telecommunications, tourism, construction and intellectual property.

The conclusion of the latest military exercise and the defence committee meeting reflect both countries’ continued efforts to strengthen security coordination and broaden their bilateral partnership.