“The government’s decision to halt all future defence procurements and contracts with Norway is justified as the country failed to show respect for Malaysia, says defence minister Khaled Nordin.”
“He said the Cabinet endorsed the defence ministry’s recommendation to stop procuring defence assets from Norway after the country revoked the export licence for a missile system ordered by Malaysia.” “Khaled said the Cabinet also considered whether the policy, which applies only to the defence ministry, should be extended to other ministries.”
“[July 9th] unity government spokesman Fahmi Fadzil said the defence ministry had been ordered to immediately halt all new procurements of defence equipment from Norway.”
“Khaled expressed Putrajaya’s disappointment, noting that the contract was signed in 2018 and that payments had already been made before Norway unilaterally revoked the licence without notice or prior consultation.”
“He said Norway’s explanation that the missile system was supplied only to NATO members and allies was unconvincing, as it was fully aware of Malaysia’s need to strengthen its defence capabilities, particularly for patrol and security operations in the South China Sea.”