Cambodia, Malaysia Seek Closer Defence Cooperation, Including AI and Peacekeeping
Cambodia, Malaysia Seek Closer Defence Cooperation, Including AI and Peacekeeping
PHNOM PENH, 7 August 2026 — Malaysia has pledged to further strengthen and expand defence cooperation with Cambodia, including in peacekeeping operations, maritime security, artificial intelligence (AI), and training, during talks between senior leaders in Phnom Penh on Friday.
Malaysian Defence Minister Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled bin Nordin made the commitment during a courtesy call on Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet at the Peace Palace.
According to the Cambodian government, Khaled described Cambodia as a close and trusted friend, saying his visit would help translate the two countries’ commitment into concrete actions aimed at deepening bilateral defence cooperation.
He also briefed Hun Manet on the outcomes of bilateral discussions between the defence ministries of the two countries, describing the talks as productive.
Malaysia reaffirmed its commitment to continue providing defence training for Cambodian personnel while exploring broader cooperation in United Nations peacekeeping operations, non-traditional security threats, maritime security, and the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in the defence sector.
Hun Manet welcomed the continued progress in Cambodia-Malaysia relations and praised the achievements of bilateral cooperation, particularly in defence.
He reiterated Cambodia’s commitment to supporting closer collaboration between the defence ministries of both countries.
The Cambodian prime minister also expressed appreciation to the Malaysian government for its active role in facilitating the Cambodia-Thailand ceasefire and for leading and continuing to participate in the ASEAN Observer Team (AOT) deployed in Cambodia.
Hun Manet encouraged both defence ministries to further deepen practical cooperation and exchanged views with the Malaysian defence minister on regional and international issues.
Before concluding the meeting, Hun Manet briefed Khaled on recent developments along the Cambodia-Thailand border, reaffirming Cambodia’s commitment to resolving border issues peacefully through international law and existing bilateral conventions, treaties, and agreements.
