LANGKAWI: With nearly a year to go before its return, the Defence Services Asia Exhibition and Conference (DSA 2026) and National Security Asia (NATSEC Asia 2026) have already garnered strong early backing from industry leaders, setting the tone for what organisers anticipate to be the most impactful edition yet.
At a contract exchange ceremony held on the sidelines of the 17th Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA 2025), nine companies formalised their participation in DSA and NATSEC Asia 2026. The event was witnessed by Malaysia’s Minister of Defence, YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin; Secretary General of the Ministry of Defence, YBhg. Datuk Lokman Hakim bin Ali; Chief of Defence Force, YBhg. General Datuk Mohd Nizam Jaffar; Chief of Army, YBhg. General Tan Sri Dato’ Wira Muhammad Hafizuddeain bin Jantan, among other dignitaries.
“This milestone sets the stage for what is shaping up to be the most ambitious edition of DSA and NATSEC Asia to date,” said Nadzeem Abdul Rahman, Executive Director of DSA Exhibition and Conference Sdn Bhd. “These early signings reflect the stature of our events on the international stage, and the trust that key players place in our platform to deliver meaningful engagement and tangible outcomes.”
He added that in the face of rapidly evolving threats and technological disruption—especially in AI and advanced computing—defence and security stakeholders are increasingly seeking platforms that deliver relevance, credibility, and actionable insights.
Among the early confirmed exhibitors are Ada Vinci Global Sdn. Bhd. (AVG), Advance Defence Systems Sdn. Bhd., Cendana Auto Sdn. Bhd., IDC Technologies Sdn. Bhd., Mega Arms Sdn. Bhd., Nizra Group, Rohde & Schwarz, Weststar Defence Industries Sdn. Bhd., and VR Universal Sdn. Bhd.
Welcoming the strong start, Defence Minister YB Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin said: “For over three decades, DSA has remained a cornerstone of the global defence calendar. NATSEC Asia, though newer, has rapidly grown in reach and relevance. Their continued success underscores Malaysia’s role as a trusted regional hub for defence and security collaboration.”
He commended the participating companies for their early commitment, noting that their involvement is a vote of confidence in Malaysia’s strategic position and the event’s growing global influence.
DSA and NATSEC Asia are held biennially with the support of Malaysia’s Ministry of Defence and Ministry of Home Affairs. The 2024 edition recorded unprecedented participation—1,324 companies from 60 countries and 588 foreign VVIP delegations from 45 nations.
The 2026 edition, scheduled for 20–23 April at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre (MITEC) in Kuala Lumpur, will carry the theme “Enhancing Capabilities and Resilience Through Technology.” A key highlight will be the return of the CBRNE Arena—a purpose-built, fully integrated exhibition and networking space dedicated to the Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, and Explosives (CBRNe) sector. Officially launched today by the Chief of Army, the segment will showcase live demonstrations, cutting-edge exhibits, and panel discussions aimed at strengthening global crisis preparedness and response.
Organisers are encouraging companies interested in connecting with decision-makers, unveiling innovations, and shaping the future of defence and national security to confirm their participation early.
For more information, visit www.dsaexhibition.com.
