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

Defence Minister Datuk Seri Mohamed Khaled Nordin has suggested that the Malaysian government is considering Melaka as a potential alternative location for the Langkawi International Maritime and Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in the future. However, he noted that substantial government investment would be required to develop the necessary infrastructure before the exhibition could be held in Melaka.

Khaled explained that Klebang, near Batu Berendam, which has an airport, could serve as a suitable location for the exhibition. He stated that holding LIMA in Melaka would allow more people from across the country to attend, as those attending the current event in Langkawi face difficulties in gathering there. The Defence Minister made these remarks during a launch event for the Civil-Military Cooperation Carnival (CIMIC) held at Dataran 1Malaysia, Klebang.

Earlier, he had mentioned the government's plans to hold the biennial exhibition in Melaka if Langkawi was no longer considered a suitable venue. The state government expressed readiness to host the international exhibition, but required an assessment of its capacity and the benefits it would bring to Melaka. Chief Minister Datuk Seri Ab Rauf Yusoh agreed that Melaka is a strategic location for hosting LIMA, but emphasized the need to consider the state's capacity.

The CIMIC event, running from August 29 to 31, aims to strengthen civil-military cooperation and provide the public with an opportunity to learn more about the Malaysian Armed Forces (MAF).