During the ADMM Retreat in Penang, Malaysia, Defence Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen stressed the significance of ASEAN cooperation in addressing security challenges related to Artificial Intelligence and Critical Underwater Infrastructure. Ministers endorsed joint efforts to bolster military capacities for CUI protection and released a statement on AI’s responsible usage. Dr. Ng further emphasized the importance of ASEAN unity and held bilateral discussions to enhance defence relations.
At the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat held in Penang, Malaysia, Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen engaged with his counterparts to strengthen ASEAN unity and cooperation amidst emerging security challenges. He underscored the necessity for regional collaboration, particularly in the realms of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Critical Underwater Infrastructure (CUI) security, which are crucial for maintaining stability and security in the region.
The Ministers acknowledged the heightened need for military preparedness regarding CUI protection due to its vulnerabilities. They endorsed a joint discussion paper by Singapore and Thailand advocating deeper cooperation on CUI security. Additionally, the ADMM members officially released a Joint Statement emphasizing the accountable use of AI within the defence sector, further promoting its strategic implications for regional security.
In a discussion following the meeting, Dr. Ng reaffirmed the importance of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus as essential platforms in tackling both current and forthcoming regional security concerns. He stated, “There is greater need for ASEAN unity, solidarity, and centrality in dealing with existing and emerging security challenges, particularly transnational ones.” This sentiment highlights the collective vision for regional cooperation and security.
During the ADMM Retreat, Dr. Ng had bilateral meetings with Defence Ministers from Malaysia and Thailand, reinforcing Singapore’s longstanding defence relationships. Discussions included enhancing collaboration both bilaterally and through regional frameworks such as ADMM and ADMM-Plus, ensuring robust defence strategies in the region.
The ADMM serves as a crucial element of the regional security framework, facilitating peace and fostering trust among its ten member nations through consistent practical cooperation. The flexible collaboration and emphasis on shared security allow ASEAN members to collectively address challenges while reinforcing mutual trust and commitment.
The ADMM Retreat in Malaysia highlighted Singapore’s commitment to enhancing regional cooperation in tackling significant security issues, including AI and CUI protection. Minister Dr. Ng Eng Hen emphasized ASEAN unity as vital in addressing these challenges effectively. The collaborative discussions and agreements reached will contribute to strengthening regional security frameworks, underscoring the importance of trust and mutual cooperation among ASEAN member states.
Original Source: www.mindef.gov.sg
