Gov't Stresses ICP Compliance In Defence Asset Procurement - Adly
KUALA LUMPUR, March 11 (Bernama) -- The government emphasises compliance with the Industrial Collaboration Programme (ICP) clause in every defence asset procurement contract to ensure technology transfer and the development of local expertise, said Deputy Defence Minister Adly Zahari.
He said the measure is part of the four phases of the implementation of the National Defence Industry Policy (DIPN) aimed at developing the local defence industry, in line with the aspirations of the Defence White Paper 2020-2030.
“The first phase of the DIPN focuses on a comprehensive audit of the local defence industry, including the assessment of high-technology companies and their capabilities. The subsequent phases will emphasise research and development (R&D), collaboration with universities and industry, and enhancing local manufacturing capacity, before exploring commercial opportunities at the global level,” he said.
Adly Zahari said this in his reply to a question from Senator Datuk Seri S. Vell Paari regarding the latest status of the DIPN implementation, including its strategic direction, sector priorities, and short- and long-term targets in developing a competitive local defence industry, in the Dewan Negara, today.
He said the procurement of defence assets from abroad, such as the FA-50 aircraft from South Korea, also involves the development of simulators by local companies, as part of technology transfer and expertise training.
In the context of the changing global warfare landscape, Adly said that the DIPN’s priorities now also include the development of modern technologies, such as drones, loitering munitions and anti-drone systems, to ensure that the country’s defence capabilities remain relevant and resilient.
Regarding local ammunition production capacity, he said there are six ammunition manufacturing companies in Malaysia, currently undergoing an audit process to assess their actual capabilities.
The audit includes an evaluation of ammunition production capacity in common calibres, such as 5.56mm, 7.62mm and 9mm, the level of automation and manufacturing technology used, and their ability to meet the needs of the Malaysian Armed Forces, the Royal Malaysia Police, and other security agencies during emergencies or global supply chain disruptions.
“For now, the domestic ammunition supply is sufficient. However, this audit is important, to determine the extent to which local companies can increase production capacity, strengthen the production of light weapons, and ensure that the local defence industry becomes more self-reliant.
“It will also help identify the need for technological collaboration to accelerate the development of local talent and high-value manufacturing capacity,” he said.
-- BERNAMA
