Govt explores Melaka as alternative venue for LIMA, says Khaled Nordin

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has indicated that the government is considering Melaka as a possible alternative venue for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in the future. However, he emphasized that significant government investment would be required to develop the necessary infrastructure before the exhibition could take place in Melaka.

Khaled explained that Klebang, located near Batu Berendam which has an airport and harbor facilities, could serve as an alternative location to Langkawi for hosting LIMA. He stated that holding the exhibition in Melaka would allow people across the country to attend, as it is not as popular among attendees as Langkawi. This idea emerged following the participation of six Royal Malaysian Navy ships in this year's Melaka-level National Day celebrations.

Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh of Melaka confirmed that the state government is willing to host the biennial international exhibition but emphasized the need to assess the capacity and benefits it would bring to the region. They plan to discuss this matter at the federal government level if it proves beneficial for both the federal and state governments.

The Civil-Military Cooperation Carnival (CIMIC), held from August 29 to 31 in Klebang, serves as a platform to strengthen civil-military cooperation and provide the public with an opportunity to learn more about the Malaysian Armed Forces.