The DSA and NATSEC Asia defence exhibitions have now been in existence for nearly four decades and is one of Malaysia’s most valuable instruments for international engagement in the defence and security domain. In an exclusive interview on the sidelines of the ongoing Defence & Security, Encik Nadzeem Abdul Rahman, Executive Director, DSA Exhibition and Conference Sdn Bhd provides an insight into one of the important defence exhibitions in the 2026 calendar.
He highlights that DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026 functions as the region’s strategic meeting point where decisions are made and partnerships are forged. “Every edition carries the weight of purpose and reflects Malaysia’s role as a trusted convener,” he adds. His confidence is well placed as 80% of the exhibition space for DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026 has already been confirmed by returning and new local and international participants.
Edited excerpts from the interview
Could you share an overview of DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026 and what makes the upcoming edition especially significant?
For almost four decades, DSA and NATSEC Asia have evolved from a trade exhibition into one of Malaysia’s most valuable instruments for international engagement in the defence and security domain. These events are not merely showcases; they are national strategic assets that reinforce Malaysia’s identity as a neutral, reliable, and strategically influential nation.
The 2026 edition will build upon that legacy with new features such as the CBRNE Arena, Firearms & Tactical Gear Segment, and HADR Segment, alongside dedicated platforms like the DSA & NATSEC Asia Lab for innovators and the Business-to-Business MOU Centre Stage for high-visibility industry signings. Together, they mark the next phase in positioning Malaysia as the region’s trusted hub for meaningful defence dialogue, capability showcases, and multilateral engagement.
How does DSA & NATSEC Asia position itself among the world’s leading defence and security exhibitions?
DSA & NATSEC Asia have earned their place among the top and popular defence and security exhibitions in the world, which is something we take great pride in. It’s a reflection of Malaysia’s professionalism, credibility, and long-standing commitment to creating a trusted platform for the global defence and security community.
What makes us truly unique is Malaysia’s neutral and balanced position in the region. We provide a space where nations, even those with differing interests, can come together, engage, and collaborate. That ability to bring everyone to the same table is something quite special. Our events embody Malaysia’s role as a peace-oriented and responsible nation. They directly support our National Security Policy, while reinforcing the country’s reputation as a reliable partner in promoting regional stability and constructive dialogue.
What are the key themes or focus areas for 2026?
The theme for DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026, “Enhancing Capabilities and Resilience Through Technology,” captures the essence of how the global defence and security community is adapting to a new era of challenges. Around the world, nations are investing in technologies that strengthen preparedness, interoperability, and resilience across all domains.
In line with this, DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026 will place strong emphasis on emerging and disruptive technologies, including cyber and digital defence transformation, artificial intelligence, unmanned and autonomous systems, and communications technologies, as well as integrated border, homeland, and maritime security solutions.
Through our new features such as the CBRNE Arena, Firearms & Tactical Gear Segment, HADR Segment, and the DSA & NATSEC Asia Lab, the event will showcase how innovation drives operational readiness and cross-sector collaboration. Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that every dialogue, demonstration, and partnership formed at DSA & NATSEC Asia 2026 contributes to building a more resilient and technologically capable security ecosystem, both regionally and globally.
DSA has consistently drawn strong government and military participation from across the world. What level of international presence can we expect in 2026?
We anticipate another record-breaking turnout in 2026. The last edition welcomed more than 500 foreign delegations from 40 countries, including defence ministers, chiefs of armed forces, police chiefs, senior government officials, and national security agencies; a clear reflection of DSA and NATSEC Asia’s stature as one of the world’s top defence and homeland security exhibitions.
For the upcoming edition, we expect even greater international participation, driven by growing regional demand for advanced defence technologies, cyber resilience, and cross-border cooperation. DSA and NATSEC Asia have long been recognised as a results-oriented platform, where engagements translate into real outcomes. In 2024 alone, the Malaysian Ministry of Defence signed 40 contracts worth RM7.3 billion, while the Ministry of Home Affairs secured 14 contracts valued at RM2.1 billion. Solid proof of how our event facilitates genuine capability development and strategic industrial partnerships.
