US to help navigate security off Sabah?

In bilateral relations, it's important to build enough trust among governments as well as leading agencies, said Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein.

KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and the United States are detailing efforts to further improve security cooperation between the countries and within the Asean region.

Defence Minister Hishammuddin Hussein said given the unfolding global landscape particularly in this region, it was important for Malaysia to have “friends” who would not only appreciate the country’s system but who are also able to share, cooperate and were keen to guide these ties to a higher level.

Speaking to the media after meeting US Defence Secretary Chuck Hagel, Hishammuddin said it was vital for those who see Asean’s importance, to understand the “dynamics between the nations, the landscape and the terrain in which we have to operate and who is responsible for what”.

As such, he added that inter-governmental engagement at the highest level on security and defence was essential.

“In focusing on the different dimensions (in bilateral relations), it’s important to build enough trust among governments as well as leading agencies and stakeholders,” he said.

Alluding to the Sulu terrorist attack on Lahad Datu, Sabah, earlier this year, Hishammuddin said Malaysia’s concern and priority was to seek understanding and cooperation from the Philippines to help address the issue.

Whilst declining to disclose details, he did however add that the US will help “navigate” security issues through the Eastern Sabah Security Command (Esscom).

He said it was important for US to work through Esscom because the latter involved other Asean members including Philippines.

He noted that Hagel’s current visit to Malaysia, in the run-up to President Barrack Obama’s arrival in October, added value to that cooperation, especially in terms of “enhancing understanding” on this country.

Obama’s visit is expected to further improve ties between Kuala Lumpur and Washington not only in the security aspects but also politically and economically.

In addition to Malaysia, Hagel will also travel to Indonesia, Brunei Darussalam and the Philippines.

‘Malaysia played a key role’

It is understood that the US is keen on ‘resuming’ its strong presence in region in view of China’s fast expending influence.

The US was at one time entrenched in Cubic Bay in the Philippines.

In the run-up to the 13th general election, there were speculations in Sabah that Sepanggar Bay was the US’s “other option”.

Hagel who arrived on Saturday for his first official visit to Malaysia, told a joint press conference following talks with Hishammuddin and Defence Ministry officials that Malaysia played an important role in contributing to regional and global security, citing the country’s contribution towards curbing maritime piracy. Malaysia will assume the chairmanship of Asean in 2015.

Hagel also reaffirmed the US’ commitment to assist Malaysia in increasing its capability in areas like humanitarian assistance and disaster relief, peace keeping and global security.

Hagel noted that the US had conducted more than 75 military-related activities this year with Malaysia, designed to mould a more professional and flexible force.

FMT