Can Turkiye replace Norway as Malaysia's naval partner

Hamzah, Luthfy (2026) Can Turkiye replace Norway as Malaysia's naval partner. Daily Sabah, NA (NA). pp. 1-4.

Preview

PDF - Published Version Download (1MB) | Preview

Abstract

This article examines Malaysia's naval modernisation challenges following Norway's cancellation of the export approval for the Naval Strike Missile intended for the Royal Malaysian Navy's Littoral Combat Ships. It argues that the episode exposes a broader vulnerability in contemporary defence procurement, whereby military capability is shaped not only by technological sophistication and financial commitments but also by the political reliability and long-term strategic trustworthiness of defence suppliers. Against the backdrop of an ageing naval fleet, growing maritime security demands, and the priorities of the 13th Malaysia Plan, the article evaluates Malaysia's need to diversify its defence partnerships while preserving strategic autonomy and operational interoperability. It considers the limitations and advantages associated with established American, European, Chinese, South Korean, and Indian defence suppliers before examining Türkiye's emergence as an increasingly significant naval and defence industrial power. Particular attention is given to Türkiye's development of indigenous naval capabilities, modular platforms, industrial partnerships, and relatively flexible approach to defence cooperation. The article contends that Türkiye should not be regarded as Malaysia's sole procurement solution, but rather as a potentially important strategic partner within a diversified defence ecosystem. Ultimately, it argues that the future of Malaysia's naval modernisation will depend on balancing technological capability, interoperability, supplier diversification, and political reliability, with strategic trust becoming an increasingly important determinant of long-term defence partnerships in a fragmented international order.

Item Type:	Article (Electronic Media)
Uncontrolled Keywords:	Malaysia; Türkiye; naval modernisation; defence procurement; strategic trust; defence industrial cooperation; supplier diversification; strategic autonomy; Royal Malaysian Navy; middle powers
Subjects:	J Political Science > JZ International relations
Kulliyyahs/Centres/Divisions/Institutes (Can select more than one option. Press CONTROL button):	International Institute of Islamic Thought and Civilization (ISTAC) Office of the Rector
Depositing User:	Mr Muhammad Syameer Luthfy Bin Hamzah
Date Deposited:	21 Jul 2026 10:38
Last Update:	21 Jul 2026 10:39
Queue Number:	2026-07-Q4195
URI:	http://irep.iium.edu.my/id/eprint/130096

Actions (login required)

View Item