Chapter 4: External Defence Relations As a member of ASEAN Malaysia gives high priority to the effort to ensure regional peace and development and maintains strong defence cooperation with other ASEAN members. Malaysia recognises the significance of establishing defence cooperation with countries outside of ASEAN especially in Asia-Pacific and Europe. The defence cooperation between Malaysia and these countries is based on the interest of Malaysia’s economy which is developing fast. Hence stability and prosperity in ASEAN and the Asia pacific is beneficial to Malaysia. Defence Cooperation with ASEAN Members Indonesia is an important country for Malaysia as both countries share land and maritime borders. The General Border Committee which was established in 1972 is a forum for the two countries to cooperate in upholding peace, security and development along common borders. Social, political and economic issues if not adequately addressed will worsen and affect bilateral relations. Consequently, Malaysia needs to maintain close bilateral relation with Indonesia while striving to improve cooperation and resolve differences through bilateral dialogue and negotiations. Thailand also shares land and maritime boundaries with Malaysia. The 1965 Joint Border Agreement created the General Border Committee with many consequent activities contributing to the security and prosperity of both countries. Ongoing defence activities are not restricted to the border areas but include training, exchange of information and combined efforts to combat asymmetric threats. Besides the FPDA Malaysia-Singapore defence relations is boosted by the 1995 Memorandum of Understanding on Defence Industry Cooperation. Malaysia-Singapore military cooperation involves courses and training, exchange of officers and visits at all MALAYSIA’S NATIONAL DEFENCE POLICY Page 20