Singapore reaffirmed its dedication to regional cooperation on Artificial Intelligence and Critical Underwater Infrastructure security at the ADMM Retreat in Malaysia. Minister Ng Eng Hen emphasized the need for ASEAN unity in addressing emerging security challenges. The meeting produced a Joint Statement on AI cooperation and explored enhancing military response capabilities for underwater infrastructure protection.
Minister for Defence Dr. Ng Eng Hen represented Singapore at the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Retreat held in Penang, Malaysia. During discussions, Minister Ng and his counterparts focused on enhancing ASEAN unity and regional collaboration in tackling emerging security threats. He underscored the significance of cooperation in areas such as Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Critical Underwater Infrastructure (CUI) security to ensure the effectiveness of the ADMM and ADMM-Plus frameworks.
The ASEAN Defence Ministers acknowledged the pressing need to bolster military awareness and capabilities concerning CUI protection, given the vulnerabilities associated with such infrastructures. They expressed support for a collaborative discussion paper from Singapore and Thailand advocating for a concerted effort among ASEAN militaries to improve CUI security, which is vital in response efforts to disruptions.
A Joint Statement on Cooperation in Artificial Intelligence within the Defence Sector was also released, illustrating the commitment to address AI implications and promote its responsible use in defense. Furthermore, the Ministers agreed to allow Germany and Türkiye to observe the ADMM-Plus Experts’ Working Groups, enhancing partnerships within the region.
Following the meeting, Dr. Ng reiterated the ongoing importance of ADMM and ADMM-Plus as pivotal platforms for addressing regional security challenges. He remarked on the necessity for ASEAN unity, emphasizing, “greater need for ASEAN unity, solidarity and centrality [in] dealing with both existing and emerging security challenges, particularly transnational ones.”
On the sidelines of the Retreat, Dr. Ng met with the Malaysian Minister of Defence, Dato’ Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin, to express gratitude for hosting the ADMM. They discussed ways to enhance bilateral cooperation as well as collaboration within multilateral frameworks such as the ADMM and Five Power Defence Arrangements.
In addition, Dr. Ng conferred with Thailand’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defence, Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai, about strengthening defense ties between Singapore and Thailand. They deliberated on advancing cooperation in both bilateral and multilateral contexts to ensure regional security cohesion and stability.
The ADMM continues to serve as a fundamental pillar of regional security architecture, contributing to regional peace through trust-building and sustained cooperation among its ten member nations.
The ADMM Retreat highlighted the commitment of ASEAN members to strengthen cooperation in addressing critical security challenges, particularly concerning AI and CUI security. The meetings underscored the importance of unity and collaboration for regional stability, with significant dialogues held between Singapore, Malaysia, and Thailand to enhance bilateral and multilateral defense relations. The emphasis on responsible AI use within defense illustrates the proactive approach by ASEAN to navigate contemporary security landscapes.
Original Source: www.mindef.gov.sg
